US and FIFA officials targeting Arab and Muslim World Cup players and fans, community leaders tell Arab News

The introduction of new rules during the ongoing World Cup has sparked significant controversy and confusion among players, referees, and fans alike. The most contentious incident occurred during the match between the United States and Paraguay, where the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system made an incorrect decision regarding a yellow card. This situation has raised serious questions about the interpretation and application of the new regulations introduced by FIFA.

During the game, the VAR overturned a yellow card given to American captain Tim Ream and instead awarded one to Paraguayan forward Miguel Almirón, citing alleged simulation of a foul. At first glance, this decision appeared correct as Ream did not make contact with his opponent, while Almirón seemed to have feigned a foul. However, according to the International Football Association Board (IFAB) rules and the VAR protocol, such an intervention was not permissible under the circumstances.

The rule concerning "incorrect identity" applies only when a referee penalizes the wrong player for the same infringement. In this case, the situations were entirely different—one involving a potential foul and the other involving simulation—meaning the VAR should not have intervened. Furthermore, the review of the footage was requested after play had already resumed, which contradicts the established VAR procedures.

These issues have prompted discussions within FIFA about the need for additional clarifications, as many fans believe the VAR will increasingly target simulated fouls, despite this not being explicitly outlined in current regulations.

Another point of contention has been the mandatory three-minute hydration breaks introduced for all matches, regardless of weather conditions. While officially justified as a measure to protect players' health, several coaches have expressed dissatisfaction. Some argue that these interruptions unnecessarily disrupt the flow of the game, while others highlight how they provide valuable opportunities for tactical instructions during halftime.

Former England international Phil Jagielka even suggested that these breaks could be more beneficial for coaches than the traditional halftime rest period itself.

Additionally, a new rule has been implemented requiring players to take only five seconds to perform a throw-in. If a referee determines that a player is delaying the restart, a countdown begins, and if the time expires without the ball being put into play, possession is awarded to the opposing team. This regulation marked its debut during the match between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Canada, where defender Sead Kolašinac lost possession due to a delayed throw-in.

Community leaders have also voiced concerns over perceived bias against Arab and Muslim players and fans by certain officials from the United States and FIFA. These allegations suggest that there might be targeted treatment towards individuals from specific regions or backgrounds, although concrete evidence supporting these claims remains unclear. Such accusations add another layer of complexity to the already contentious environment surrounding the implementation of new football regulations.

As the tournament progresses, it remains to be seen whether these controversial changes will be adjusted based on feedback from players, coaches, and fans. The effectiveness of the VAR system, the impact of hydration breaks, and the enforcement of the five-second throw-in rule will likely continue to be subjects of debate throughout the remainder of the competition.