VAR to Sanction Diving at World Cup, But Only When a Card is Issued

VAR will be used to sanction players who simulate fouls at the 2026 World Cup, specifically when an opposing player is incorrectly booked as a result of the dive. This protocol was highlighted following an incident during a recent match between the USA and Paraguay.

In the game, Paraguayan winger Miguel Almiron went to ground under pressure from USA captain Tim Ream. Dutch referee Danny Makkelie initially awarded Paraguay a free-kick and showed Ream a yellow card. Replays, however, indicated that Ream had not made contact with Almiron, who had appeared to simulate the foul.

The game was paused for a VAR review, prompted by "mistaken identity." Referee Makkelie reviewed the incident at the pitchside monitor, leading him to reverse his initial decision. Ream's yellow card was rescinded, and Almiron was subsequently booked for simulation.

Under the laws of the game, VAR interventions for yellow cards are generally limited to specific scenarios, including goals, penalties, red cards, and cases of mistaken identity. The "mistaken identity" rule is typically applied when a referee penalizes an offense but has clearly identified the wrong player. In Almiron's case, the yellow card for simulation was issued under this rule, despite the referee having initially identified Ream correctly but misinterpreting the incident.

While no prior instances of VAR being used in this manner to overturn simulation incidents were reportedly found, FIFA is understood to be satisfied with how its officials handled the situation. This suggests that more retrospective punishments for diving could occur during the World Cup. FIFA's only concern regarding the incident was the restart procedure, indicating that a drop ball should have been used instead of a US free-kick after the game was stopped mid-flow.

It is important to note that VAR will only intervene in such simulation incidents if a card has been issued to a player by the referee. If Ream had not initially received a yellow card, FIFA rules would not have permitted a VAR review of the incident.

(Source: Yahoo Sports Soccer)