The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has introduced several new measures designed to enhance match tempo and reduce time-wasting in football. These changes were approved during the 140th Annual General Meeting (AGM), which took place in Hensol, Wales. The meeting, chaired by Mike Jones, President of the Football Association of Wales (FAW), coincided with the FAW’s 150th anniversary, providing a fitting backdrop for these significant changes in the modern game.
New Rules to Combat Time-Wasting
One of the key changes confirmed at the AGM is the extension of the countdown principle to throw-ins and goal kicks. If a referee determines that a throw-in or goal kick is being delayed or deliberately wasted, a five-second visual countdown will be initiated. If the ball is not in play by the end of the countdown, the throw-in will be awarded to the opposing team, and a delayed goal kick will result in a corner kick for the opposition.
Time-Limited Substitutions
To further streamline match flow, substituted players must now leave the field within 10 seconds of the substitution board being shown or the referee’s signal if no board is used. If the player fails to exit within the 10-second window, they must still leave the field; however, the substitute will not be permitted to enter until the first stoppage after one minute of play has elapsed.
Off-Field Treatment and Injury Assessments
New rules will also apply to players who require injury treatment or assessment on the field. If play is stopped for an injury, the player will need to leave the field and remain off for one minute once the game resumes. This measure aims to reduce unnecessary delays and keep the game flowing more efficiently.
VAR Adjustments
The AGM also introduced three key adjustments to the VAR system. Going forward, VAR will be allowed to review the following:
- Red cards arising from a clearly incorrect second yellow card.
- Mistaken identity, where the referee penalizes the wrong player for an offense leading to a red or yellow card.
- Competitions may allow VAR to review a clearly incorrectly awarded corner kick, as long as the review can be completed quickly and without delaying the restart of the match.
Trial for Goalkeeper Tactical Injury Delays
The IFAB also approved trials to address goalkeeper tactical injury delays. These trials aim to explore ways to deter goalkeepers from using injuries as a tactical delay to disrupt the game. Further proposals are expected to be reviewed based on the outcomes of these trials.
Implementation Timeline
These new regulations will be applied starting with the 2026 FIFA World Cup and in all other competitions under the jurisdiction of IFAB. The changes are a direct response to widespread calls for practical tools to protect effective playing time and reduce delays that disrupt the flow of matches.
Conclusion
IFAB’s new measures reflect a growing emphasis on maintaining the speed and tempo of football matches. With these changes, the governing body hopes to improve the matchday experience for players and fans alike while ensuring a more consistent and efficient game.
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