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FIFA's Collina Advocates VAR for Corner Kicks at 2026

12/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Pierluigi Collina, the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) referees' chief, supports VAR review of corner kicks at the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
He warns that an "honest mistake" by a referee could unfairly decide a match.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) must approve it at its upcoming meeting.
The goal is to avoid match delays, as corner kicks involve waiting.
Separately, the English Football Association chief executive opposes expanding VAR's role.

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Story summary

Pierluigi Collina, the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) referees' chief, supports VAR review of corner kicks at the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
He warns that an "honest mistake" by a referee could unfairly decide a match.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) must approve it at its upcoming meeting.
The goal is to avoid match delays, as corner kicks involve waiting.
Separately, the English Football Association chief executive opposes expanding VAR's role.