IFAB oversees the laws of football and, amid new VAR and misconduct rules, shapes decisions that impact every match.
England and Argentina clash in a World Cup semi-final marked by a new rule allowing red cards for players who cover their mouths during verbal exchanges. Paredes complains to referee Elfath as Kane briefly covers his mouth; earlier incidents involving Hincapié and Almirón underline enforcement of the rule.
Racist abuse directed at Dutch players after a World Cup loss has led the KNVB to pass messages to prosecutors. A new rule, dubbed the Prestianni Law, allows red cards for players who hide abusive language, with enforcement seen in recent matches.
The International Football Association Board has updated VAR protocols this summer, enabling interventions for mistaken identity in yellow-card cases. Embolo’s red card after a review at the World Cup quarterfinal against Argentina has intensified debate over the new rule. Critics warn of potential chaos at club level, while supporters see it as a step toward deterring simulation.