The rulemakers want to expand the powers of the video assistant referee; in the future, corner kicks and yellow-red cards will also be subject to review. A vote on the matter is coming soon.

The powers of video assistants are set to be expanded in time for the World Cup in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada (June 11 to July 19). On Tuesday, the rulemakers of the International Football Association Board (IFAB) confirmed the corresponding agenda for the General Assembly on February 28 in Wales. A three-quarters majority of members is required to approve changes there; if approved, they would be introduced across all leagues for the upcoming season.

IFAB members are set to vote at the end of the month on whether video assistant referees (VAR) will also be able to review corner kick decisions and the second caution leading to a yellow-red card in the future. Currently, only goals, penalty kicks, red cards, and possible mix-ups regarding send-offs may be reviewed.

In addition, rule changes aimed at further improving the flow of the game and reducing delays will be discussed at the 140th meeting. A ten-second time limit for players during substitutions has also been proposed. The eight-second rule, which currently applies to goalkeepers, is to be extended to throw-ins and goal kicks in the future. Furthermore, players receiving medical treatment on the field will be required to leave the field and will not be allowed to return for a specified period of time.

Regarding the controversial topic of offsides, the IFAB Board, chaired by Welshman Noel Mooney, agreed in January to “continue with tests.” The rulemakers also expressed support for the use of body cameras by referees.