The 2026 men’s World Cup will be staged across three North American nations, a first in tournament history that promises new logistical challenges and fan experiences. Ahead of the draw, The Athletic has gathered a panel of analysts — including Carl Anka, Sebastian Stafford‑Bloor and Caoimhe O’Neill — to answer the most pressing curiosities about how the competition will be played.
The Mechanics of Extra Time and Stoppage Time
When a knockout match remains tied after 90 minutes, teams enter a 30‑minute extra‑time period, split into two 15‑minute halves. If the deadlock persists, the game proceeds to a penalty shoot‑out. The additional minutes are not arbitrary; referees add stoppage time to compensate for interruptions such as injuries, substitutions and VAR reviews, ensuring the total playing time reflects the actual flow of the match.
VAR, Substitutions, and Coaching Tactics
Video Assistant Referee technology, introduced to curb officiating errors, has become both a safeguard and a source of frustration, often halting momentum with lengthy reviews. Coaches have adapted their substitution strategies accordingly, frequently bringing on forwards to inject goal‑scoring threat rather than preserving defensive shape with wing‑backs. The rule also dictates that once a player is taken off at the elite level, they cannot return, a restriction that shapes late‑game decision‑making.
The Pain and Pageantry of Goal Celebrations
Scoring a goal often triggers a knee‑slide celebration, a maneuver that can be as painful as it is exhilarating if executed without proper technique. Players who have mastered the slide report a sharp sting on the shin, yet the visual impact remains a beloved tradition, especially when fans mimic the move in stadiums worldwide.
Fashion on the Pitch
Off the field, debates continue over what players wear on it. Some prefer to pull their socks over the knees for added comfort, while others opt for leggings or traditional shorts. Personal preference, cultural habit and even superstition influence these choices, and the conversation extends to the type of shin‑guard that best balances protection with mobility.
The upcoming tournament will test not only athletic prowess but also the evolving interplay between rulebooks, technology and player expression, offering a glimpse into soccer’s future while honoring its long‑standing rituals.