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FIFA considers yellow card rule changes for 2026 World Cup
via SeneNews1 min read
FIFA is reportedly considering a significant change to its yellow card rules for the upcoming World Cup, according to The Athletic. The proposed amendment would see yellow cards reset not only after the quarter-finals, but also after the group stages. Currently, yellow cards are only cleared after the quarter-finals to prevent players from missing the final due to an accumulation of bookings. Under existing regulations, a player who receives two yellow cards in two different matches is automatically suspended for the subsequent game. The FIFA Council is scheduled to meet on Tuesday in Vancouver to discuss these potential changes for the World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The expansion of the tournament from 32 to 48 teams introduces an additional round, the Round of 32. Without this rule modification, FIFA is concerned that many players could face suspension risks, potentially missing a semi-final after playing six matches leading up to the quarter-finals, as reported by a British media outlet.
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