Football could be on the verge of one of its most radical changes in over a century. According to reports from The Times and The Sun, the International Football Association Board (IFAB), which oversees the laws of the game, is considering a rule that would ban follow-up play after a missed penalty—and the change could be implemented as early as the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

❌ No More Second Chances After a Miss?

Currently, if a penalty is saved by the goalkeeper or hits the post, the game continues and players can go for the rebound. But IFAB is considering scrapping this entirely. The proposed change would mean that once the penalty is taken, the play ends—no rebounds allowed, just like in a penalty shootout.

If the penalty is missed, either wide, saved, or off the post, the game would restart with a goal kick, even if the goalkeeper pushes it out for a corner.

This would mark the end of a rule that has existed for 134 years.

⚖️ Restoring Balance Between Goalkeepers and Shooters

One of the key motivations for this proposal is to restore fairness in the duel between the goalkeeper and the penalty taker. Currently, goalkeepers are required to keep one foot on the line, making their task extremely difficult, while the taker benefits from a clear scoring opportunity.

According to The Sun, experts argue that “in most cases, the punishment for a handball or foul in the box gives the attacking team a much greater chance to score than the original play ever would have.”

By eliminating rebounds, the penalty would become a one-shot opportunity, putting more pressure on the shooter and giving goalkeepers a slightly more level playing field.

🚫 Less Controversy, Fewer Encroachments

The rule change would also help reduce the growing number of controversies surrounding players encroaching into the box before the penalty is taken—a frequent issue reviewed by VAR. With no continuation of play, such situations would become irrelevant, leading to smoother and quicker decisions.

🗓 When Will This Be Decided?

The proposal is still under discussion at the highest levels. A final vote is expected before the end of February 2026. If approved, the new penalty rule would debut at the 2026 World Cup.

📺 VAR Use May Expand Too

In addition to the penalty reform, the IFAB is also considering expanding the scope of VAR interventions to cover more in-game incidents. The goal is to increase decision accuracy and reduce frustration among players, coaches, and fans alike.

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🔮 A Small Rule, a Huge Impact?

If passed, this change could significantly alter how teams approach penalties and defending inside the box. The penalty would no longer guarantee second chances, and teams may need to rethink their risk-taking strategies in crucial moments.

One thing is certain: football as we know it could change forever in 2026.