These new regulations will come into effect during the World Cup and will later become part of the 2026-27 season.
World football governing body FIFA has confirmed the introduction of several new rules for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to international media reports, just days before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, FIFA and the International Football Association Board (IFAB) announced significant changes to the Laws of the Game.
These new rules will be enforced during the World Cup and will subsequently become part of the 2026-27 football season.
Under the new regulations, if a player deliberately takes more than five seconds to restart play with a throw-in or goal kick, the opposing team will be awarded an advantage.
Similarly, any player receiving treatment from a physiotherapist during a match must remain off the field for one minute, although goalkeepers and certain special situations will be exempt.
According to FIFA Chief Refereeing Officer Pierluigi Collina, the purpose of these changes is to discourage time-wasting, increase the pace of the game, and improve the experience for fans.
Under the new rules, a player involved in a confrontation who covers their mouth while making comments could also be shown a red card.
The powers of VAR have also been expanded, allowing reviews of corner-kick decisions and dismissals resulting from a second yellow card.
A player being substituted will have 10 seconds to leave the field from the nearest exit point.
If they fail to do so, the substitute player will not be allowed to enter the field until at least the next stoppage in play, meaning their team will have to continue with 10 players temporarily.
In addition, a three-minute hydration break will be provided around the 22nd minute of each half to help players perform better in extreme heat conditions.
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