With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just 10 months away from its opening ceremonies, the sport's governing body issued a reminder to all of its member organizations on the prohibition of gambling sponsorships or advertising on referee jerseys and in VAR (Video Assistant Referee) rooms.
Key Takeaways
- FIFA sends reminder on prohibition of gambling sponsorships and ads on referee shirts and in VAR rooms.
- VAR is a system were refs utilized video technology to review game decisions such as goals and penalties.
- The 2026 FIFA World Cup starts on June 11-July 19 and will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Circular No. 1938, which tightens restrictions on gambling-related advertising in the sport, was sent by FIFA to all organizations including FIFA Council, Confederations, European Club Association, FIFPRO, and World Leagues Association on Aug. 1.
The regulations were updated to include the VAR system, video operation room (VOR), and the referee review area (RRA) due to their growing importance as essential support elements for match officials that enhance their ability to make accurate and fair decisions.
Implemented in 2016, VAR is a system where referees use video technology to review decisions like goals, penalties, red cards, and mistaken identity, aiming to ensure accuracy in critical moments in major competitions.
Although match officials are permitted to have sponsor advertising on their shirts for matches (paragraphs 1 and 4 of article 15), the regulation specifically bans all advertising for tobacco-related products, alcoholic beverages, narcotics or gambling establishments.
“In view of the above, FIFA Member Associations are kindly reminded that in matches and competitions organized under their jurisdiction, any form of gambling advertising (including casinos or betting companies) is strictly forbidden on the shirts worn by match officials, in the VOR and the RRA,” FIFA wrote on Page 2 of the memo. “This prohibition also applies to any related banner that might appear on television during an On-Field Review (OFR), and to all other advertising involving tobacco related products, alcohol, narcotics and slogans of a political, racist or religious nature.”
"Your commitment helps to protect not only match officials, but also the credibility and integrity of our game," ended the memo, written by Mattias Grafström, FIFA's Secretary General.
2026 FIFA World Cup
The 2026 World Cup will feature teams from 48 countries, including its three hosts (Canada, Mexico, United States).
The 2026 version will be the first to include a Round of 32, with a total of 104 matches across 16 host cities.
The final will take place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ.
