FIFA to wait until after World Cup to bring disciplinary action against players and coaches
FIFA has decided to postpone disciplinary actions against players and coaches for criticizing match officials until after the World Cup concludes. The move aims to avoid distractions during the ongoing tournament.
Why it matters
The decision reflects the tension between maintaining professional standards in officiating and the high-pressure environment of international sports tournaments.
FIFA to wait until after World Cup to bring disciplinary action against players and coaches Football Today Thu, July 16, 2026 at 6:30 AM UTC · 2 min read FIFA is expected to wait until the end of the World Cup before deciding whether to punish players and coaches who publicly criticised match officials during the tournament ( The Athletic ).
Several high-profile figures have questioned refereeing decisions over the past few weeks, but FIFA has chosen not to take action while the competition is still ongoing.
Any disciplinary measures will likely be considered after the final, with decisions based on referees’ reports and other relevant evidence.
There have been several complaints from coaches and players following controversial matches.
England manager Thomas Tuchel was among those who strongly criticised officials after his side’s round-of-16 victory over Mexico , where Jarell Quansah was sent off .
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