FIFA, world’s football governing body is set to introduce a major change in the rules for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
According to reports, FIFA is planning to wipe out all accumulated yellow cards after the group stage and quarter-final rounds.
This means that players will no longer carry bookings into the knockout stages of the tournament.
The main aim of the decision is to reduce the risk of star players missing important knockout matches, including the semi-finals and final, due to earlier minor disciplinary offences.
Under the current system used in previous tournaments, players who receive two yellow cards across different matches can be suspended for one game. In some cases, this has led to key players missing crucial knockout fixtures, even after reaching the later stages of the competition.
FIFA believes the new adjustment will make the tournament more competitive and fairer, ensuring that the biggest matches feature the best players available. Officials argue that it will also reduce controversy and improve the overall experience for teams and fans.
The proposal is expected to be formally approved in the coming weeks, meaning it will come into effect for the 2026 tournament.
Once approved, players will still be at risk of suspension during the group stages and early knockout rounds, but those bookings will not carry forward into the later stages of the competition.
The 2026 World Cup will be the first edition to feature 48 teams, making it the biggest tournament in FIFA history. With more matches and more players involved, FIFA says adjustments like this are necessary to maintain balance and excitement.
