Idman.biz
The changes to be applied in all tournaments, including the 2026 World Cup, will significantly increase the pace of the game.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has approved a number of important innovations in the rules of the game of football, and the decisions have already officially entered into force internationally. The adopted changes will be applied in all official competitions, including the FIFA World Cup to be held in 2026.
Idman.Biz reports that one of the main innovations is the introduction of a five-second countdown during throw-ins and goal kicks. If the time is exceeded, the throw-in will be given to the opposing team, and if the goal kick is delayed, the referee will award a corner kick. This aims to prevent intentional prolongation of time.
The rule regarding player substitutions has also been tightened. A football player leaving the field must do so within 10 seconds. Otherwise, the player entering the field will have to wait 1 minute. After a football player who gets injured receives medical assistance, he will stay off the field for at least 1 minute, and this period will be calculated in real playing time.
The powers of the VAR system have also been expanded. Now, a red card given as a result of a wrongly shown second yellow card, a card presented to the wrong football player, and clearly wrongly assigned corner kicks can also be reviewed by the video assistant referee.
A separate test mechanism will be applied regarding goalkeepers' tactical injuries aimed at prolonging time. This step is especially calculated to maintain the rhythm of matches in the last minutes.
According to additional changes that will come into force from the 2026/2027 season, up to 8 player substitutions will be allowed in test matches, and 11 with the agreement of the parties. Conditions will be created for the use of safely covered equipment, and it will also be possible to introduce a body camera for referees by the decision of the organizers.
A provision regarding double contact during a penalty kick has been added to the rules. If a goal is scored after the advantage is applied, the football player who cancels the clear goal opportunity will not be subject to additional disciplinary action. Trials on semi-automatic offside technology will continue.
