FIFA's on-field officials will enforce stricter rules to maintain match pace at the upcoming 48-team World Cup, now less than two weeks away.
Pierluigi Collina, FIFA's chief refereeing officer, said the goal is to eliminate disruptions to match tempo wherever possible.
Referees will also prioritize issuing red cards to players who cover their mouths while speaking to opponents in confrontational situations.
Other key points of emphasis include:
— Players who leave the field after being angered by an official's decision can receive a red card.
— A five-second visual countdown will be used for goal kicks and throw-ins. Failure to take the kick within that window results in a corner kick for the opposition. Failing to execute a throw-in gives the opponents possession.
— Substituted players must exit the field within 10 seconds, excluding cases involving injuries or security concerns.
— Clarified VAR protocols allow checks for red cards issued after an incorrectly given second yellow card, cases of mistaken identity, and wrongly awarded corner kicks.
For attacking team fouls before a corner kick or free kick is taken, VAR can be used to determine if disciplinary action is warranted.
Collina noted that conversations where players shield their mouths from view — but remain non-confrontational — will continue to be allowed.
The tournament will feature three-minute water breaks midway through each half of every match.