FIFA Proposes New Rules to Reduce Time-Wasting in Football

FIFA has announced new proposals aimed at curbing time-wasting in football, as communicated by the International Football Association Board (IFAB). The proposed measures include a rule that mandates players receiving treatment for injuries to stay off the field for one minute, which is intended to prevent delays that disrupt the flow of the game.

Currently, there is no universal limit on this, although the Premier League has enforced a guideline of 30 seconds for the 2023/24 season. FIFA previously trialed a two-minute rule during the Arab Cup in December.

IFAB has suggested a one-minute compromise, addressing concerns that it may negatively affect play, with exceptions for goalkeepers, penalty takers, and players shown a card. Additional measures under consideration include a countdown for goal kicks and throw-ins, a time limit for substitutes to leave the field within ten seconds, and the expansion of video assistant referee (VAR) reviews.

FIFA and IFAB hope these changes will enhance the pace of matches and reduce tactical delays while ensuring safety for genuinely injured players.