Since the start of the 2026 World Cup, some refereeing decisions have sparked discussions, even with a generally controlled atmosphere. An unpunished action on Kylian Mbappé against Senegal, a controversial contact involving Lionel Messi against Algeria, and a disputed intervention on Aïssa Mandi during Argentina-Algeria have fueled the debates. In another match, Jude Bellingham escaped punishment for a gesture similar to the one that led to Miguel Almirón’s red card during Turkey-Paraguay, raising questions about the consistency of decisions. Refereeing is based on guidelines established by FIFA and its head Pierluigi Collina.
Several adjustments have already been introduced for this tournament. The rules require substituted players to leave the field within ten seconds, or risk delaying their replacement’s entry. A five-second countdown has also been implemented for throw-ins and goal kicks. The VAR intervention area has been expanded, and a sanction can now be issued if a player leaves the field to contest a refereeing decision. Pierluigi Collina also reminded everyone: “Any player covering their mouth during a confrontation with an opponent may be shown a red card.”
According to The Sun and The Times, FIFA and IFAB are now considering a new change regarding penalty shootouts. Currently, two draws determine first the side of the field, then the team that starts. The proposal is to keep only one draw, with the winner choosing either the side or the order of play, with the opponent getting the other decision. The goal is to improve fairness in situations deemed too influenced by chance.
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— FIFA World Cup 🏆 (@fifaworldcup_fr) June 24, 2026
