World Cup 2026: Goalkeeper tactical timeouts banned
Collina asked for the protocol to be updated so that VAR can intervene if a foul occurs before the ball is in play.
There are many examples, such as the goal he scored in England’s 1-1 draw with Uruguay at Wembley in March.
Cole Palmer curled a corner into the box but before the ball could be kicked Adam Wharton blocked Jose Maria Gimenez’s run.
This allowed the ball to reach Harvey Barnes, who saw it saved by Fernando Muslera and Ben White struck from close range.
VAR protocol previously did not allow for a foul to be reviewed before a corner was taken, but the Italian asked Ifab for permission to change this.
Ifab has now accepted the request and said that any foul that directly affects the goal and leads to a penalty kick or disciplinary action can be reviewed before a set-piece is taken.
The measure will be implemented for the World Cup and will be re-evaluated after the tournament.
This means VAR could have recommended the corner be retaken due to Wharton’s foul on Gimenez for the England goal.
“We think it is very unfair to award a goal when a defender is prevented from defending,” Collina said.
“A clear and illegal block by an offensive player. The sole purpose was to prevent the defender from defending against his opponent.
“We are very confident that before the World Cup we will receive a statement from Ifab that VAR can intervene immediately before the ball is in play. We believe that no one can object.”
This will only apply to offensive fouls, not defensive fouls due to holding or pulling.
Collina also announced the new rule for players who cover their mouth with a hand, arm or T-shirt when facing an opponent.
This will now be a red card after a controversial incident involving Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni and Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. during a Champions League match in February.
Prestianni received a six-match ban from UEFA for homophobic behavior.
“If the conversation is friendly, they can continue to do this without any problems,” Collina said.
“When the conversation becomes confrontational, covering your mouth means you are potentially doing something very wrong, and the sanction is a red card.”
Collina also said referees will be on hand to monitor contests in the area and officials will be provided with data on the teams’ tactical approach.
