FIFA will cancel single yellow cards after the group stage and quarter-finals at the World Cup, while adding new red-card sanctions.
FIFA Council has approved changes to disciplinary rules for the 2026 World Cup, including the cancellation of single yellow cards after the group stage and again after the quarter-finals.
In the announcement, FIFA said the new reset points reflect the longer format and will apply during the final competition in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Under the amended regulations, players who carry one yellow card at the end of the group stage will have it wiped before the knockout rounds. FIFA will then cancel single yellow cards again after the quarter-finals, reducing the risk that players miss semi-finals or the final through accumulated isolated bookings.
The council also approved the use of two new laws at the tournament. Players who leave the field of play in direct protest against a referee’s decision may receive a red card, while players who cover their mouths when speaking to opponents during confrontations may also face dismissal.
The rule on mouth-covering aims to address situations in which players may attempt to conceal abusive or discriminatory remarks during on-field confrontations.
The measures were set out by the International Football Association Board, which approved the changes at a special meeting in Vancouver.