FIFA is reportedly considering alterations to penalty shootout rules ahead of the expanded 32-team 2026 World Cup. The proposal comes as the tournament progresses and discussions around game regulations intensify. Simultaneously, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the controversial mid-game water break policy, which has drawn criticism from some observers. Infantino addressed concerns regarding the breaks’ impact on game flow and fairness. The potential rule change regarding penalty shootouts aims to address concerns about the current format’s reliance on chance. Details of the proposed changes to the penalty shootout procedure have not yet been fully disclosed. These developments signal FIFA’s willingness to review and adapt regulations in response to ongoing debate and the evolving landscape of the sport.