Discussion from rule keepers
Video referees should also check yellow-red cards
October 29, 2025 – 1:47 p.mReading time: 2 minutes
Yellow-red cards are not yet the focus of VAR. However, that could soon change. The eight-second rule could also be expanded.
The video assistant could soon take on an expanded role on the pitch and be able to check possible errors with yellow-red cards. The football regulators (Ifab) discussed a corresponding change in their deliberations.
So far, VAR is not allowed to intervene in the event of a second yellow card. That could change soon. A concrete proposal for this could already be adopted at the Ifab general meeting on February 28, 2026 in Hensol, Wales.
In addition to this possible innovation, the flow of the game is also the focus of the discussions. According to experts, the recently introduced eight-second rule for goalkeepers has already increased the pace. As of this season, if a goalkeeper holds the ball with their hands or arms for more than eight seconds, the opposing team receives a corner kick. The referee shows the last five seconds as a countdown with his hand raised.
This rule could also be applied to throw-ins and goal kicks in the future. The aim is to reduce further delays in the game. Improvements to the offside rule were also discussed, especially when the height was the same. Millimeter decisions could then be more in favor of the attacking team. However, there should be further tests and analyzes on this.
The Ifab is the body responsible for all regulatory issues. It includes four representatives from the world association Fifa and one representative from each of the four associations from England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Decisions can only be made with a majority of at least five votes.