Home / Sports / 2026 World Cup: Less Added Time, More Action?
2026 World Cup: Less Added Time, More Action?
18 Jun
Summary
- Added time at the 2026 World Cup has been surprisingly low.
- Fifa aims to increase match tempo by tackling time-wasting tactics.
- New rules include countdowns for goal kicks and substitutions.
The 2026 World Cup is experiencing notably shorter periods of added time, a stark contrast to previous tournaments. This development aligns with Fifa's strategic objective to increase the overall tempo of matches. Despite the inclusion of hydration breaks, the stoppage time signaled by officials has been surprisingly brief.
Fifa referees' chief Pierluigi Collina has implemented a new approach, moving away from the extensive added time seen in Qatar. This tournament's matches are averaging approximately 96 minutes, excluding hydration breaks, a reduction from over 100 minutes previously.
New tactics have been introduced to limit game interruptions. These include five-second countdowns for goal kicks and throw-ins, a 10-second clock for substitutions, and a mandatory one-minute absence from play for players requiring treatment. These changes have been positively received in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
