All Premier League 2025/26 Season Rule Changes: What’s New, What’s Banned, and the Set-Piece Rule

The Premier League has announced several rule changes for the 2025/26 season to enhance the game's excitement and fairness. The new rules include a crackdown on grappling, a strict time limit for goalkeepers to release the ball within eight seconds, and penalties for holding offenses during corner kicks.

Referees will penalize defenders or attackers who impede opponents' movements during set-pieces, with VAR assisting in reviewing incidents. Goalkeepers are now limited to eight seconds to control the ball before releasing it, and captains can approach referees for clarification on major decisions.

Additionally, deliberate double touches during penalty kicks will result in an indirect free kick or a retake. These changes aim to make the game faster, fairer, and less chaotic, with a focus on clear instructions from referees and the use of VAR to ensure accurate decisions.