Major new rule changes to be discussed at high-profile meeting in Vancouver ahead of June’s World Cup
FIFA plans to introduce new rules for the World Cup
FIFA is reportedly preparing to introduce major rule changes for the World Cup, which will see all yellow cards erased at the end of the group stage. The same reset will apply after the quarter-finals to reduce the risk of players missing the finals.
According to a reporter from The Athletic, the proposal will be discussed and approved by the FIFA Council in Vancouver today (Tuesday). This summer’s expanded tournament will feature 48 teams instead of 32, with governing bodies looking to minimize suspensions under the new format.
Previously, yellow cards would only be removed after the quarter-finals, meaning players who had received two cautions in the previous five games would be suspended.
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A second amnesty period will be introduced after the group stage, meaning players will only be suspended if they receive a yellow card in two of the three group stage matches, or in two matches in the round of 32, last 16 or quarter-final.
England open their World Cup campaign against Croatia on June 17, before playing against Ghana and Panama the following week. All three group stage matches will be played in the United States.
In the expanded format, to advance to the new Round of 32, teams must finish in the top two of their group, or one of the top eight teams in three places.
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Manager Thomas Tuchel has already set England’s ambitions to finish top of their group while ensuring they do not underestimate their opponents. “No one should be underestimated,” Tuchel warned.
“Croatia, of course, is an outstanding name and the highest placed team in pot two that we are in the group with.It is a difficult opening game against Croatia.
“We will win from here. Ghana are always full of talent, always able to surprise and have a great history in World Cup football. Also, Panama will try to get the most out of their underdog role.”
“No one can be underestimated. Everyone deserves the utmost respect and we will show it. For me personally, even in the Champions League, we have to focus on the group. The group is always the most difficult and we want to escape and we want to win the group. It is tough.”
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