On Tuesday, July 14th, 2026, law professor Richard Epstein published a blog post titled "FIFA's Flawed Rulebook," calling for a reexamination of certain soccer rules that he believes lead to unfair outcomes.

Epstein made three key recommendations for improving the game: (1) revising the accumulation of yellow cards and automatic suspensions following red cards; (2) awarding two points for goals scored during regular play and only one point for penalty-kick goals; and (3) changing overtime by gradually reducing the number of players on the field.

Epstein specifically proposes replacing the current yellow card accumulation system with a penalty similar to hockey, where the offending player must sit out for a few minutes. He also suggests that next-game suspensions for red cards should be carefully reviewed in the days before the following match, focusing on the intent of the offending player.

Regarding penalty kicks, Epstein argues that officials’ calls inside the box are difficult to make and notes that penalty kicks have about a 70% success rate. He concludes that penalty-kick goals should count for less than goals scored during regular play, similar to basketball scoring.

However, while Epstein’s call to review and improve the rules is supported, the author Paul Cassell endorses only the first proposal concerning card penalties and expresses reservations about the scoring and overtime suggestions.

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