Khaberni - FIFA is heading towards introducing an important amendment to the yellow card system during the 2026 World Cup, in a step that could bring about a major transformation in the way matches are managed within the tournament.
According to media reports, including those published by The Athletic and BBC Sport, the new proposal involves resetting yellow cards at two stages: the first after the end of the group stage, and the second after the quarterfinal round, instead of the current system which resets them at just one stage.
This approach comes in response to the expansion of the tournament to 48 teams, which means an increase in the number of matches that players play, and therefore a higher probability of suspension due to accumulated warnings.
Under the current system, a player might be suspended after receiving just two yellow cards, which could lead to missing critical matches such as the semifinals.
According to the proposal, the maximum limit for suspension will remain the same (two yellow cards), but applying two stages for resetting the warnings will reduce the chances of key players missing in the knockout stages, and will offer teams more flexibility in managing their players.
Observers also believe that this amendment could reflect on the tactical aspects, as it will allow coaches more space to take risks during certain matches, without the excessive worry about losing their stars in the later stages.
This proposal is expected to be discussed during a FIFA Council meeting in Vancouver, with expectations of its approval if it gains broad consensus, to become part of the official regulations for the tournament that will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
