World Cup changes our readers would make: Ban offsides in the area? Timeouts? Shrink penalty box?

Following the 2026 FIFA World Cup, The Athletic solicited reader suggestions for rule changes to the tournament and soccer in general. Responses ranged from banning offsides in the penalty area and shrinking the penalty box to stricter punishment for diving, eliminating mandatory hydration breaks, and implementing an accurate scoreboard clock. Readers also criticized VAR delays and the half-time show in the final. The article compiles these fan perspectives, reflecting both first-time viewers and long-time followers of the sport, and highlights ongoing debates about the balance between tradition, entertainment, and fairness in modern soccer.