FIFA and the International Football Association Board have approved a series of changes to the Laws of the Game, introducing new measures aimed at improving match flow and fairness ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The adjustments are expected to be applied in upcoming international competitions, with the expanded World Cup tournament in United States, Canada, and Mexico set to be a major stage for the implementation of the new regulations.

Among the most notable developments is a rule specifically targeting goalkeepers, alongside measures designed to prevent time-wasting during substitutions and restarts.

Stricter control on substitutions

Under the revised guidelines, players being substituted must leave the field within ten seconds once the referee signals for the change.

If the player fails to exit the pitch within that time limit, the incoming substitute will not be allowed to enter immediately.

Instead, the replacement will be required to wait for at least one minute and until the next stoppage in play before joining the match.

During that period, the team involved will temporarily continue with ten players on the pitch.

The measure is intended to limit delays that often occur during substitutions and to encourage quicker transitions between players.

Throw-ins and time management

The new rules also address time-wasting during throw-ins.

If a team deliberately delays restarting play from a throw-in, referees will now have the authority to award possession of the ball to the opposing team.

Officials hope the measure will encourage teams to restart play more quickly and prevent stoppages from disrupting the rhythm of matches.

New sanction for goalkeepers

Goalkeepers will also face stricter oversight under the updated regulations.

If a goalkeeper holds the ball for an excessive amount of time, the referee may now penalise the action by awarding a corner kick directly to the opposing team.

The rule is designed to discourage time-wasting tactics that can slow down the pace of matches.

Expanded role for VAR

The reforms also extend the use of the Video Assistant Referee system.

VAR will now be able to intervene in additional situations where a clear error has occurred.

This includes correcting a wrongly awarded corner kick or overturning disciplinary sanctions that have been issued incorrectly.

The changes reflect ongoing efforts by football’s governing bodies to refine officiating and ensure greater accuracy during matches.

As preparations continue for the 2026 World Cup, the new rules are expected to shape how games are managed at the highest level of international football.