Khaberni - In a step aimed at changing the face of football and increasing the pace of actual play, FIFA and the International Football Association Board officially announced the adoption of a set of new legal amendments that will come into effect in the World Cup 2026 finals, aimed at "battling the phenomenon of deliberate time wasting" and providing a more thrilling experience for fans.
10-second rule: Quick substitutions or "penalty"
The substituted player must leave the pitch within 10 seconds of the referee's signal or the raising of the electronic board.
In case of delay, the team will be penalized by having the substitute player wait for a full minute outside the lines before being allowed to enter at the next stop of play, forcing teams to maintain the speed of the game's rhythm.
Countdown for resumption: Only 5 seconds
As part of the deterrent measures, referees will give players only 5 seconds to execute throw-ins and goal kicks if time wasting is suspected.
The consequences will be severe, as a late throw-in will be awarded to the opposing team, while a delayed goal kick will turn into a corner kick for the opponent, which constitutes a radical shift in the philosophy of penalties on the field.
Treatment of injuries.. "Mandatory waiting minute"
To reduce feigning injuries, the new rules stipulate that any player receiving medical treatment on the field or causing the game to stop on the pretext of injury must leave the field and remain out for a full minute after play resumes.
Exemptions apply to goalkeepers or players who have sustained an injury resulting in the opponent receiving a yellow or red card.
Expanding the powers of the "VAR"
On the technological front, the FIFA report mentioned granting Video Assistant Referees (VAR) broader powers, where they can intervene in cases of incorrect second yellow cards leading to expulsion.
The role of "VAR" will also extend to reviewing corner kicks or goal kicks that have been inaccurately assessed if a clear mistake is discovered that affects the course of the match.
