The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has approved a series of changes aimed at expediting the flow of football matches and curtailing deliberate time-wasting. These changes are set to take effect from 2026 onwards and will be relevant for all competitions, including the FIFA World Cup. Key among the new rules is the introduction of a visual countdown of five seconds for throw-ins and goal kicks whenever the referee deems there has been an excessive delay. Should the countdown expire without the ball being put back into play, the throw-in will be awarded to the opposing team, while a delayed goal kick will result in a corner kick for the rival team.

In an effort to maintain the game’s tempo, players who are substituted must leave the field within a maximum of ten seconds after the referee signals for the change. If the player fails to comply, they will still be required to exit, but the incoming substitute will only be allowed to enter the field after a one-minute wait. These measures are implemented with the intent of ensuring more continuous play, thereby enhancing the experience for spectators and players alike.

These changes not only aim to streamline the game but could also have substantial implications for team strategies and player management. Coaches will need to adapt their tactics to account for these new regulations, especially concerning substitutions and managing time effectively during matches. As these rules will be a significant part of the football landscape starting with the 2026 World Cup, their impact is expected to resonate through various levels of the sport, embracing a faster-paced approach that may redefine how football is played.