The Video Asistant Referee monitor
Football lawmakers, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) are considering granting the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) the authority to review second yellow cards at their upcoming meeting in January 2026.
According to The Times, VAR would be empowered to review second yellow card incidents, not just straight red cards due to their significant impact on the game.
IFAB will deliberate on the proposal with its members and may approve it for implementation.
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A statement from IFAB read: “In relation to the video assistant referee (VAR) protocol, it was discussed that, among others, the video match officials (VMO) should have the possibility to intervene when an incorrect second yellow card has been given.”
It was also announced that, in an effort to reduce time-wasting in football, a countdown timing rule could be applied to throw-ins and goal kicks.
Officials believe this move would significantly help combat time-wasting and ensure fair play by regulating the time teams take to restart play.
“A relevant proposal will be submitted to IFAB’s Annual Business Meeting, which is scheduled for January 20, 2026 in London. Deliberations included whether the countdown principle could be applied to throw-ins and goal kicks, and how to reduce the amount of time lost due to stoppages caused by injuries and substitutions,” the statement added.
The existing countdown rule for goalkeepers holding the ball has already helped reduce time-wasting, prompting these new considerations.
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Meanwhile, watch the latest Sports Check interview with Alex Kotey, the GFA Referees Manager below:
