Collina enforces stricter stoppage time rules at World Cup 2026
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 12:12 PM
Last updated Jun 18, 2026
Pierluigi Collina, FIFA's head of referees, implements new measures to combat time-wasting during the 2026 World Cup. Unlike the previous tournament, which resulted in lengthy matches averaging over 100 minutes, this year's games are clocking in around 96 minutes, excluding hydration breaks. So far, fan response in the host nations has been positive, and statistics suggest less disruption in gameplay. Collina's approach includes countdown timers for goal-kicks and strict rules on substitutions to maintain match tempo.
- •Matches average 96 minutes, down from over 100 minutes in Qatar.
- •Strict time regulations on goal-kicks and substitutions are in effect.
- •Fan reception in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada has been positive.
- •Ball-in-play time is approximately 57 minutes, slightly reduced from the previous World Cup.
- •Hydration break time is no longer automatically added.
- 12:12 PMYahoo Sports — What's going on with stoppage time at the World Cup?
- 12:09 PMBBC Sport — What's going on with stoppage time at the World Cup?
"Pierluigi Collina decided to wage war on time-wasting at this World Cup, changing tack from the last tournament. But has it been a success so far?
"Pierluigi Collina decided to wage war on time-wasting at this World Cup, changing tack from the last tournament. But has it been a success so far?
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 18, 2026, 12:12 PMWhat's going on with stoppage time at the World Cup?
Pierluigi Collina decided to wage war on time-wasting at this World Cup, changing tack from the last tournament. But has it been a success so far?
- BBC SportJun 18, 2026, 12:09 PMWhat's going on with stoppage time at the World Cup?
Pierluigi Collina decided to wage war on time-wasting at this World Cup, changing tack from the last tournament. But has it been a success so far?
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