WC 2026 TO FEATURE NEW CONCUSSION SUBS RULE

(Agencies)

ZURICH, May 26: FIFA will introduce a special “concussion substitution” rule at the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, marking the first time the tournament will feature a dedicated emergency replacement for players suffering head injuries during matches.

Under the new regulation, teams will be allowed to make an additional substitution if a player is suspected of sustaining a concussion or serious head injury. The change will not count towards the standard limit of five tactical substitutions permitted during a game.

The move has been widely welcomed as an important step towards improving player safety and ensuring quicker medical intervention during high-intensity matches.

Medical teams and match officials are expected to closely monitor head injury incidents.