28.02.2026 22:13
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) announced that important new rules will come into effect in football. According to the statement, while many rules will undergo changes, new rules will also be valid in the 2026 World Cup.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) approved decisions regarding measures to improve match flow and reduce interruptions during its annual meeting.
NEW RULES TO BE IMPLEMENTED IN THE WORLD CUP
According to a statement from the board, new regulations related to throw-ins, goal kicks, and the acceleration of player substitutions, as well as issues involving VAR, were decided to be implemented in the 2026 FIFA World Cup during the 140th IFAB Annual General Meeting held in Wales.
HERE ARE THE NEW RULES INTRODUCED
According to the decision, referees will conduct a 5-second countdown for goal kicks and throw-ins to reduce interruptions. If a throw-in is not used in time, it will be awarded to the opposing team. In the case of delayed goal kicks, the opposing team will be awarded a corner kick.
Player substitutions will be made within 10 seconds. If this time is exceeded, the player entering the game will have to wait at least one minute until the match stops, and the team will play with one less player.
A player who causes the match to stop due to injury and comes off the field will also have to wait one minute before returning to the pitch.
Additionally, video assistant referee (VAR) may intervene in cases of incorrect corners and second yellow cards.