Jewellery & Accessories — New Flexible Rule
The blanket ban on jewellery has been replaced with a more flexible rule. Players can now wear certain accessories if they are safely covered or pose no danger to themselves or other players.
All jewellery must be removed before the match. No exceptions.
Accessories are permitted if they are not dangerous. Items that could cause injury must be removed or safely covered. Referees judge on safety grounds.
What changed
Previously the Laws required all jewellery to be removed before a match. The 2026/27 rules replace this with a safety-based approach — accessories are permitted if they are not dangerous to the player or others. Items that could cause injury must still be removed or safely taped/covered. This brings the Laws in line with how the rule was already being applied in practice at many levels.
Why it matters for the World Cup
You will see players at the World Cup wearing items that would previously have been required to be removed. Referees will focus on whether an accessory poses a genuine safety risk rather than applying a blanket ban. This is a practical change that reflects modern player culture.
Scenarios
Player wearing a taped wedding ring
A player has a wedding ring taped over with medical tape before the match.
Player wearing a large chain necklace
A player comes onto the pitch wearing a large metal chain necklace that could catch on another player.