FIFA is moving forward with plans to introduce VAR reviews for corner kicks at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The decision comes despite domestic football leagues rejecting the idea, citing concerns about game delays and resource limitations.

FIFA Proposes VAR Expansion for Corners

During an October meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB)—which oversees the Laws of the Game—there was consensus to expand VAR checks for incorrectly issued second yellow cards leading to a red card. However, IFAB rejected FIFA’s proposal to review corners, leaving the governing body to run its own trial for the World Cup.

FIFA has previously used trials to test new officiating technology in major competitions, including:

• Semi-automated offside systems
• Public announcement of VAR decisions

These measures allow FIFA to explore changes before domestic leagues are expected to adopt them.

Pierluigi Collina Supports VAR Expansion

Pierluigi Collina, FIFA’s head of referees and one of the most respected figures in football officiating, has been a vocal supporter of the VAR expansion. He believes any error identifiable by VAR should be communicated quickly to ensure fair play. Collina cited a notable incident in the Euro 2016 final, when Portugal were wrongly awarded a free kick in extra time that nearly led to a goal, as an example of VAR’s potential benefit.

Why Domestic Leagues Are Hesitant

Many domestic leagues are wary of extending VAR to corners due to:

• Increased delays during matches
• Resource constraints, particularly in lower divisions
• Camera coverage limitations

For example, Premier League matches average 10 corners per game. Adding VAR reviews for each would create logistical challenges, from camera positioning to staffing VAR officials. While FIFA can deploy multiple video referees and specialized technology—including connected Adidas balls to track touches—domestic leagues cannot easily replicate these conditions.

Even top-tier leagues, like the Premier League, have faced VAR limitations. A notable case occurred when Newcastle’s controversial goal against Arsenal could not be reviewed properly due to insufficient camera coverage of the goal line.

How VAR for Corners Will Work at the World Cup

At the 2026 World Cup, FIFA plans to incorporate corner kick reviews into VAR protocols, a significant departure from the standard four reviewable incidents (goals, penalties, red cards, and mistaken identity). Key points include:

• All corner decisions will be checked by VAR before the ball is in play
• Once a corner is taken and play resumes, the referee cannot change the restart decision
• FIFA believes its resources, technology, and trained VAR officials can manage these reviews quickly and efficiently

This approach ensures fairness without disrupting the flow of the game, while providing fans and teams greater confidence in critical match decisions.

Potential Implications for Football

If successful, FIFA’s trial may set a precedent for future international tournaments. However, domestic leagues—including the Scottish Premiership, Dutch Eredivisie, and second divisions in Germany, France, Italy, and Spain—may face significant challenges adopting the system due to costs, staffing, and technological limitations.

FIFA’s focus on corners highlights the governing body’s commitment to precision and transparency in officiating, ensuring the most accurate decisions are made on football’s biggest stage.