With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, football’s global governing body is introducing a more rigorous regulatory framework designed to curb extreme on-field dissent.

New regulations following the CAN 2025 incidents

The decision stems from the controversial events that took place during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2025 final. On January 18 in Rabat, the Sénégal national team temporarily walked off the pitch, leading to scenes of total confusion that shocked the footballing world.

In response to these events, FIFA has worked with the International Football Association Board (IFAB) to ratify several amendments. These updated laws of the game will be in force during the 2026 World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.

Key changes to player and staff conduct

One of the most significant updates involves the immediate expulsion of any player who leaves the field of play voluntarily to protest an official’s decision. This disciplinary measure is not limited to players; coaching staff members who incite their squad to walk off also face severe sanctions.

• Red cards: Arbitrators are now empowered to dismiss players for leaving the pitch in protest.
• Staff accountability: Officials encouraging such behavior will be held responsible under the new guidelines.
• Automatic forfeits: Any squad deemed responsible for the definitive stoppage of a match will be handed an automatic loss.

The Sénégal-Maroc precedent

The root of this new jurisprudence lies in the actions of Sénégal coach Pape Thiaw during the CAN 2025 final. Following a penalty awarded to Maroc and the cancellation of a goal for the Lions, Pape Thiaw ordered his players to abandon the field. While the team eventually returned, the incident caused a major disruption that FIFA is determined to prevent in the future.

By adopting these new protocols, FIFA is signaling a zero-tolerance approach toward excessive protests, ensuring that the flow and integrity of international competitions remain protected.