Football's global lawmakers are poised to make significant changes to the sport's regulations later this month, with a key vote scheduled on measures designed to crack down on persistent time-wasting tactics. The International Football Association Board (IFAB) will convene for its annual meeting in Wales, where members will ballot on proposals that could fundamentally alter how match officials manage delays and substitutions.
Proposed Countdowns for Set-Pieces
One of the most notable proposals under consideration involves the introduction of formal countdowns for specific in-game situations. Under the new rules, referees would be empowered to initiate a visible five-second countdown using their fingers when they suspect deliberate time-wasting is occurring during throw-ins or goal kicks.
Failure to comply with this countdown would result in immediate consequences: goal kicks would be awarded as corners to the opposing team, while throw-ins would see possession flipped to the other side. This measure aims directly to reduce the frustrating delays that have become commonplace, particularly in the latter stages of closely contested matches.
Tackling Substitution Delays
Alongside the set-piece countdowns, IFAB will also vote on implementing a strict 10-second rule for player substitutions. This regulation is specifically designed to end the familiar sight of players from a leading team meandering slowly off the pitch to consume precious seconds. The rule would require substitutes to exit the field of play within ten seconds, helping to maintain the flow and tempo of the game.
Addressing Goalkeeper Time-Wasting
The meeting will also scrutinise the rising trend of goalkeepers feigning injuries to waste time, a tactic highlighted by recent incidents such as Leeds manager Daniel Farke's accusation against Manchester City's Gianluigi Donnarumma in November. Unlike outfield players, goalkeepers cannot be forced to leave the pitch for treatment, which can grant their team an unfair opportunity to regroup.
To counter this, a proposal has been raised that would require an outfield player to leave the field for thirty seconds whenever a goalkeeper receives treatment, thereby negating the numerical advantage gained from such delays.
Additional Agenda Items
The Cardiff meeting on 28 February will cover several other potential rule amendments. These include a possible extension of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system's remit to review red cards issued after an incorrect second yellow card, as well as cases of mistaken identity.
Furthermore, the board will vote on whether to relax rules regarding player jewellery, potentially allowing items to be worn if they are securely covered by tape.
Voting Process and Implementation
The IFAB board comprises four representatives from FIFA and one each from the football associations of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. For any rule change to be approved, it must secure six of the eight available votes. Successful proposals would come into effect from 1 July and could potentially be implemented at upcoming major tournaments, including the World Cup.
These collective measures represent a concerted effort by football's authorities to enhance the spectacle of the game by increasing active play time and reducing unsporting delays, ensuring a fairer and more engaging experience for players and fans alike.
