Here’s a colorful way to catch up on the history of the previous 22 men’s World Cups as we brace for this summer’s thrills and drama.
referees
Rules: IFAB adopts time-wasting prevention rules introduced by MLS
Soccer’s rule-making body IFAB on Saturday approved measures to tackle time-wasting that were originally introduced by MLS Next Pro in 2022 and MLS in 2024: The off-field treatment rule requires players whose injury causes play to be stopped to be treated off the field and remain off for one minute of play before being allowed […]
Ali Curtis on the MLS rule innovations that may go global
In 2022, MLS Next Pro took action against the time-wasting gamesmanship that has plagued soccer for decades. On Saturday, the sport’s rule-making body, IFAB, will vote on making the timed substitution and off-field treatment rules part of the rulebook. Ali Curtis, who spearheaded the experimentation of the rules in MLS Next Pro when the league […]
College coaches could get to make two video challenges per game
NCAA soccer rules subcommittees recommended to NCAA oversight committees that college coaches be allowed to make two video challenges per game, starting in 2026.
The rules: IFAB may implement ‘off-field treatment’ rule
IFAB on Feb. 28 will vote on implementing a rule requiring players receiving on-field injury treatment or assessment to leave the field and remain off it for a fixed period. Tuesday’s IFAB Annual Business Meeting (ABM) also agreed to a 10-second time limit for players leaving the field when being substituted. MLS Next Pro introduced […]
A record 47 match officials on 2026 FIFA International Panel
Newcomer Rosendo Mendoza is one of 16 referees selected to represent the United States at the highest international levels in 2026.
Joe Machnik: An American soccer renaissance man releases his memoir
Many have chronicled American soccer, but you’ll not find one with first-hand experience in so many aspects of it as Joe Machnik.
Referees: U.S. Soccer seeks feedback on recertification process
In a quest to make “referee recertification more useful, more practical, and designed with you in mind,” U.S. Soccer is asking refs to take a 10-minute survey. The survey enables refs to rate their recertification education experiences and provide feedback how it can be improved. The new badge: U.S. Soccer Referee Education & Development Department […]
Class of 2026: Veteran and Builder lists narrowed down
The National Soccer Hall of Fame released the names of the semifinalists on the Veteran Ballot (16 men and nine women) and Builder Ballot (10 referees).
Amy Edwards: Former college coach helps PRO ref corps read the field with tactical and video analysis
Edwards’ job is to prepare officials for each match. To help them anticipate the countless situations they may face.
