World Cup 2026 Host Nations Players Get Red Card Penalty Relief

Concacaf has announced a new policy regarding red card sanctions for players from Canada, United States, and Mexico — the 2026 World Cup hosts — which will be in effect during the 2025 Gold Cup.

“Following extensive discussions with FIFA, Concacaf can confirm that any 2025 Gold Cup pending suspension for Canada, Mexico, and United States must be served during their next international friendly match and not during the FIFA World Cup 2026,” stated Concacaf spokesperson to ESPN.

This decision emerged after Jacob Shaffelburg received a second yellow card when Canada drew 1-1 and lost 5-6 on penalties against Guatemala in the quarterfinals.

As World Cup hosts, the three nations will not participate in Concacaf qualifiers — meaning no competitive matches until the 2026 tournament.

The rule follows FIFA disciplinary code article 69.3, which states that suspension for host teams of final competitions must be served in the next friendly match.