IFAB Declares VAR Error in Embolo's Red Card Incident

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has confirmed that Switzerland striker Breel Embolo should not have received a red card during the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final match against Argentina. According to a circular issued by IFAB, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) protocol was misapplied.

The IFAB stated that a yellow card, which is not a second yellow card, can only be reviewed to identify the player who committed the foul, and not to modify the foul itself. The incident occurred on July 11 in Kansas City, where referee Joao Pinheiro initially booked Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes for a challenge on Embolo.

However, after VAR intervention, Pinheiro reviewed the incident and reversed his decision, cautioning Embolo for simulation instead. This decision faced criticism from Switzerland coach Murat Yakin, who claimed it "destroyed the game." The IFAB's clarification indicates that officials should not have reversed the original sanction, as there was no error in identifying the player cautioned.