IFAB approves rule changes aimed at speeding up matches ahead of 2026 World Cup

March 7, 2026 Oliver Obel

Football’s global rule-making body has approved a set of changes aimed at reducing time-wasting and keeping matches moving more quickly, with the measures expected to take effect before the 2026 World Cup.

The International Football Association Board (IFAB), which oversees the Laws of the Game, agreed on the updates during its 140th Annual General Meeting in Hensol, Wales. According to Reuters, the changes focus on faster restarts, stricter substitution procedures and adjustments to video review rules.

Countdown for delayed restarts

A new rule will allow referees to introduce a visible five-second countdown if they believe a team is delaying a throw-in or goal kick.

If play has not restarted by the end of the countdown, the opposing team will receive possession. In practical terms, that means a delayed throw-in would be awarded to the other side, while a slow goal kick could result in a corner being given to the opposition.

The measure builds on an earlier attempt to curb time-wasting by goalkeepers who hold the ball for extended periods.

Limits on substitution delays

IFAB also approved a tighter process for substitutions to discourage players from leaving the field slowly.

Once the substitution board is displayed or the referee signals the change, the player being replaced will have 10 seconds to exit the pitch. If that limit is exceeded, the incoming substitute must wait until the next stoppage after one minute of play has passed, although the substituted player must still leave immediately.

Officials hope the rule will reduce deliberate delays, particularly late in matches.

Injury stoppages and VAR changes

Another change addresses stoppages caused by injuries. Players who receive treatment on the field or whose injury halts play will now be required to leave the pitch once the match resumes and remain off for at least one minute.

According to Reuters, the board also expanded the circumstances in which video assistant referees (VAR) can intervene when clear evidence shows an error.

VAR officials will now be permitted to step in if a player receives a red card after a mistaken second yellow card, if the referee penalises the wrong player, or if a corner kick has clearly been awarded incorrectly.

Other rule clarifications

The next edition of the Laws of the Game, due to take effect on July 1, will also include several additional updates.

Safely covered non-dangerous items will be allowed during matches, and referees may wear chest- or head-mounted cameras. The board also clarified rules involving dropped balls and accidental double touches during penalty kicks.

Sources: Reuters