FIFA is contemplating penalty shootouts to resolve if groups ought to get a bonus level on the 2026 World Cup, ought to group video games finish in a draw.
- 2026 World Cup to function 48 groups
- FIFA assessing format
- Might introduce penalty shootouts to group stage
WHAT HAPPENED? The Athletic experiences that FIFA is contemplating an enormous change to the foundations for the 2026 World Cup. The change would see groups compete in a penalty shootout in the event that they draw a gaggle stage recreation, with a possible further level up for grabs for the winners.
THE BIGGER PICTURE: 2026 would be the first yr the World Cup expands from a 32 group event to 48 groups, that means a mammoth spherical will happen after the group levels. Whereas not but confirmed, 16 three-team teams look set to be established as a substitute of the standard eight teams of 4, with the highest two from every group qualifying for a spherical of 32 knockout stage.
AND WHAT’S MORE: With a view to fight potential collusion that might include staging penalty shootouts after video games, FIFA is contemplating the thought of them happening earlier than video games in consequence. FIFA have needed to fight this earlier than, with the ultimate matchday of World Cup group levels kicking off at precisely the identical day and time since 1986, in an effort to keep away from any foul play.
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WHAT NEXT FOR THE WORLD CUP? It stays to be seen what the 2026 event, which takes place inside the US, Mexico and Canada, will seem like with its new, unprecedented format. However followers are absolutely already forming opinions as experiences trickle out.