FIFA Abandons Mid-World Cup Rule Change for Penalty Shootout Coin Toss

FIFA has confirmed it will not alter the current coin toss rules for penalty shootouts, despite proposals to modernize the procedure.

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Under the existing regulations, the coin toss determines which team takes the first penalty. FIFA stated that after thorough analysis and consultations with experts, the traditional method will be retained.

“We understand the desire for modernization, but we have decided not to change the rules,” an official statement from the governing body read.

On Monday, FIFA, as cited by DPA, clarified that no changes would be implemented during the current World Cup, where the knockout stage is already underway. The global governing body had proposed to the International Football Association Board (IFAB) to simplify the procedure, suggesting a single coin toss instead of two (one for goal selection and one for the order of kicks). The winner of the toss would then choose one of the two options, with the loser receiving the remaining one. However, this change will not be introduced at the current tournament.