FIFA is reportedly planning significant changes to the structure and rules of the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. According to a report by The Mirror, the tournament may introduce new regulations affecting match management and gameplay speed, aiming to make football faster, more modern, and more engaging for spectators. Although the final decisions have not yet been announced, the developments have sparked widespread discussion in the football world.

The 2026 World Cup will be the largest in history, featuring 48 teams and a total of 104 matches from June 11 to July 19. For the first time, three nations will co-host the event. The new format will send 32 teams to the knockout stage after the group phase, expanding the competition’s scale and excitement. Analysts suggest that FIFA’s potential changes are intended to enhance transparency in refereeing and improve the overall viewing experience.

Some critics, however, have expressed concern that too many modifications could affect the traditional structure of the tournament, which has been held every four years since 1930.