FIFA approve major rule changes to speed up matches and reduce controversy | OneFootball

New Laws of the Game set to reshape football

FIFA approve major rule changes to speed up matches and reduce controversy

FIFA approved key changes to the Laws of the Game after IFAB’s annual meeting aiming to improve fairness and speed up matches.

What did FIFA and IFAB decide?

The FIFA, through the International Football Association Board (IFAB) has confirmed set of important rule changes following its 140th annual meeting held in Wales.

The decisions are part of a wider effort to reduce refereeing controversy, apply the laws more clearly across competitions and keep matches flowing without unnecessary stoppages.

IFAB said the new rules are designed to unify refereeing decisions and avoid punishments that do not directly affect attacking outcomes.

No yellow card if goal is scored after advantage

One of the most discussed changes concerns the advantage rule. Under the new law, if a referee allows play to continue after a foul that would have denied a clear goal chance and the attacking team scores, the defending player will not receive a yellow card.

Previously referees were required to caution the player even if a goal was scored. IFAB admitted this rule caused repeated debate and confusion in recent seasons and decided it no longer serves the game.

Five-Second countdown to stop delays

To tackle time-wasting, referees will now use a visible five-second countdown when teams delay restarts such as throw-ins or goal kicks.

If the countdown ends without play restarting:

This change is expected to have a strong impact especially late in matches.

Clear rules for substitutions and injuries

The new laws also tighten control over substitutions and injury delays:

The aim is to limit tactical delays and ensure fair use of stoppages.

Expanded powers for VAR

The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) will receive additional authority. Referees will be allowed to review:

IFAB stressed that VAR intervention must remain quick and limited.

When will the new rules apply?

The changes will officially enter the Laws of the Game on 1 July 2026 starting with the 2026 /27 season.

However, IFAB confirmed that some competitions may apply them earlier including the FIFA World Cup 2026.