01.06.2026 10:30
FIFA has decided to ban the "goalkeeper break" practice in the 2026 World Cup, which allowed goalkeepers to stop the game under the pretext of injury so that teammates could consult with the technical staff. Under the new rule, players will not be allowed to go to the technical area or receive collective tactics from coaches while the goalkeeper is receiving treatment.
FIFA has taken action against one of football's debated tactics ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The practice of goalkeepers stopping the game under the pretext of injury to allow teammates to consult with the coaching staff is being banned.
NEW RULE FROM FIFA
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, FIFA Referees Committee Chairman Pierluigi Collina announced the new regulations to be implemented during the tournament. Collina stated that it will no longer be possible for players to go to the technical area to receive tactical instructions from their coaches when goalkeepers are injured.
'GOALKEEPER TACTICAL TIMEOUT' BECOMES HISTORY
In the method frequently used in recent years, goalkeepers would signal an injury to stop the game, during which teammates would go to the coaching staff for a brief team meeting. This practice, where managers gave tactical instructions to their players, was referred to in football circles as the 'goalkeeper tactical timeout'. FIFA believes this method disrupts the opponent's game rhythm and goes against the spirit of sportsmanship.
COLLINA: THIS IS NOT A TIMEOUT
In his statement on the matter, Pierluigi Collina said, 'The goalkeeper has the right to be treated for an injury, but players do not have the right to leave the field of play to take a kind of timeout with their own coach.' The Italian football figure also noted that it would be more appropriate for only the referee, physiotherapist, and goalkeeper to remain on the field.
PLAYERS WILL NOT GO TO THE SIDELINES
Under the new application, while the goalkeeper is receiving treatment on the ground, other players will stay in their positions or gather in the center of the pitch, instead of going to the technical areas. This system was previously implemented in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) in the United States. FIFA will also introduce a similar model in the World Cup.
CHANGES TO VAR AS WELL
Meanwhile, it was reported that the International Football Association Board (IFAB) has approved some changes to the VAR protocol. The new regulation paves the way for more comprehensive review of attacking fouls occurring before the ball comes into play.
WATER BREAK DETAIL DRAWS ATTENTION
Although goalkeeper timeouts are being banned, it was stated that technical teams will be able to communicate with players during the three-minute water breaks implemented in each half of the World Cup. Nevertheless, FIFA's primary goal is said to be preventing the tactical use of goalkeeper injuries.