FIFA is reportedly pushing for a significant change to the rules governing penalty shootouts before the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup begin this Sunday. According to reports from journalist Martyn Ziegler, football’s governing body has asked the International Football Association Board (IFAB) to consider a new procedure that would alter how coin tosses are conducted before penalty shootouts.

Currently, two separate decisions are involved before a shootout begins. A coin toss determines which team chooses the goal where the penalties will be taken, while another toss decides which team takes the first kick. FIFA’s proposed change would simplify the process by using just one coin toss.

Under the suggested rule, the winner of the coin toss would be given the choice between kicking first or selecting the preferred end of the stadium for the shootout. The losing team would then receive the remaining option. FIFA believes this could streamline the procedure and reduce unnecessary delays during high-pressure knockout matches.

Penalty shootouts have always been among the most dramatic moments in football, often deciding the fate of teams in major tournaments. Research over the years has suggested that the team taking the first penalty may enjoy a slight psychological advantage, making the choice of kicking first an important strategic decision.

The proposal has already sparked debate among football fans, analysts, and former players. Supporters argue that the new system would be fairer and more straightforward, while critics believe it could increase the advantage enjoyed by the coin toss winner.

Any change to the Laws of the Game must be approved by IFAB, the body responsible for football’s official rulebook. IFAB consists of representatives from FIFA and the four British football associations. Until a final decision is made, the current penalty shootout rules remain in place.

The timing of the proposal is particularly noteworthy, with the 2026 FIFA World Cup entering its knockout phase. As matches become increasingly tense and competitive, the possibility of penalty shootouts deciding championships and eliminating contenders makes any rule adjustment highly significant.

If approved, this change could mark one of the most notable updates to penalty shootout procedures in recent years. Football fans around the world will now be watching closely to see whether IFAB accepts FIFA’s recommendation and whether the new format could make its debut during the World Cup knockout rounds.

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