FIFA Proposes VAR for Corner Decisions at 2026 World Cup
FIFA's head of referees, Pierluigi Collina, asserts that utilizing video assistant referee (VAR) checks for corner decisions will not disrupt match flow.
Despite domestic leagues rejecting the implementation of VAR for corner assessments, FIFA remains determined to trial the concept during the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
This proposal was dismissed at an October meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB), the body responsible for determining the laws of the game.
Collina addressed concerns regarding potential delays during a briefing in Washington D.C. on Thursday, stating, "The main criteria is no delay. When a corner is awarded, there is an inherent physiological delay as players, particularly the center-backs, prepare for the set piece."
He explained that the typical 10-15 seconds it takes for attackers to get ready could allow for a review if the corner decision was incorrect. "In these moments, everyone is aware if the initial decision was wrong, so why should we ignore the possibility of correcting it?" he questioned.
Mark Bullingham, chief executive of the Football Association and a member of the IFAB board, has previously expressed his opposition to the change.
Collina emphasized the importance of making accurate decisions, stating, "Our goal should be to ensure correct outcomes on the field. It would be unfortunate if a competition's result is determined by an honest mistake from a referee rather than the players' performance."
He noted that the push for technological support for referees began over a decade ago and expressed optimism about the potential benefits of VAR for corner decisions. "We will continue to discuss this matter, and I believe the objective is worthwhile," he added.
The topic will be further examined at the next IFAB meeting scheduled for January. During the October meeting, IFAB also agreed to expand VAR coverage to include incorrectly issued second yellow cards that result in a red card.