IFAB introduces game-changing rule targeting time-wasting goalkeepers for 2025-26 season

Since the introduction of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system in the 2018-19 season, soccer has taken significant strides toward optimizing playing time. With this objective in mind, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) has decided to implement a rule specifically targeting time-wasting goalkeepers for the 2025-26 season.

IFAB, the governing body under FIFA’s authority responsible for dictating the rules of the game worldwide, introduced the change during its 138th Assembly. This decision focuses on regulating goalkeeper behavior when handling the ball.

In a statement released on Saturday, the IFAB “has unanimously decided to amend Law 12.2. The amendment means that if a goalkeeper holds the ball for longer than eight seconds, the referee will award a corner kick to the opposing team.“

The new rule shifts the previous regulation, increasing the time limit from six to eight seconds. Additionally, the penalty for time-wasting will now be a corner kick rather than an indirect free kick. To ensure players and spectators are aware of the time elapsed, referees will use a five-second visual countdown with their hands.

Other significant modifications

Along with the time-wasting rule for goalkeepers, IFAB has introduced several other important changes to the regulations for the 2025-26 season:

• Dropped Ball (Law 8.2): If play is stopped outside the penalty area, the referee will determine whether to drop the ball for the team that had possession or for the team that last touched the ball.
• Ball in Play (Law 9.2): If a team official, substitute, or any player who is temporarily off the field touches the ball unintentionally, the referee will award an indirect free kick with no disciplinary sanction.
• VAR Protocol: As seen in several competitions like the FA Cup, tournaments will now have the option to require the referee to announce the outcome after a VAR review.

These changes to the rules of soccer will come into effect on July 1, 2025, with the first major tournament to implement them being the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which begins on June 14th.