IFAB introduces countdown and stricter measures to curb time-wasting at 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

IFAB will tighten up on time-wasting from the 2026 World Cup after approving a package of new measures.

IFAB said the three headline rules were ratified at its annual meeting in Wales on Saturday, targeting quicker restarts and fewer delays.

If a player is judged to be deliberately stalling a throw-in or a goal kick, the restart will be handed to the opposition, a throw to them in the first case and a corner in the second. Referees will trigger a visible five-second countdown before imposing the sanction, a mechanism already used when goalkeepers hold the ball for too long.

To deter feigned injuries, any player who receives on-pitch medical attention must leave the field and can only return one minute after play restarts.

For substitutions, the player coming off has 10 seconds to exit once the assistant referee signals the change. If not, the incoming player must wait one minute on the touchline and then the next stoppage to enter.

IFAB also expanded the scope of VAR reviews, including when doubt surrounds a second yellow card for the same player or a disputed corner. Further work is planned on cases where players leave the pitch in protest and where participants cover their mouths during exchanges.

Source: Le Progres