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The screen shows a VAR decision during the World Cup Group I soccer match between France and Senegal in East Rutherford, N.J., near New York, on June 16, 2026. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

July 16, 2026

World Cup VAR controversies show why human referees should decide where potential fouls begin

Angela Schneider, Western University and Guanpeng Zhou, Western University

Two overturned World Cup goals, in Argentina-Egypt and Norway-England, show that replay can reveal a foul, but only a referee can decide how far back the review should go.

Pacific FC’s Aidan Daniels, centre, tries to get past Vancouver FC’s David Norman, left, and Aidan O'Connor during first half Canadian Championship preliminary round soccer action in Langford, B.C., in May 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chad Hipolito

March 30, 2026

Canada becomes testing ground for FIFA’s proposed ‘daylight’ offside rule

Taylor McKee, Brock University and Michael Van Bussel, Brock University

A proposed change to football’s offside rule will be tested in Canada from 2026, as FIFA looks for ways to reduce controversy in the VAR (video assistant referee) era.

October 26, 2023

A red card could ruin the Rugby World Cup final – the game needs fairer, safer rulings on the field

Clive Thompson, University of Cape Town

A conflict resolution expert – and rugby fan – explains how the game can restore spectacle and avoid farcical and dangerous mismatches due to players being sent off.

For the first time ever, baseball players will be governed by a clock this season. It’s one of several new rule changes aimed at making the game more appealing. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

April 13, 2023

New MLB rules are consistent with baseball’s past — not an assault on tradition

Craig Greenham, University of Windsor

Following a pilot run in the minor leagues, several rule changes have been introduced to the MLB 2023 season to accelerate the pace of the games.

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