New World Cup rules: "Wasting time will not pay off"

The upcoming 2026 World Cup will feature significant rule changes designed to enhance the pace and flow of the game, according to the International Football Association Board (IFAB). A key change addresses injured players: those requiring on-field treatment must now leave the pitch and can only re-enter one minute after play resumes. This rule aims to prevent players from feigning injury to waste time. Exceptions exist for goalkeepers, collisions between players, or injuries resulting from fouls that earn an opponent a card. Previously, an eight-second rule for goalkeepers releasing the ball was introduced and has been widely accepted. Now, similar time-wasting tactics related to goal kicks and throw-ins will face stricter enforcement. Referees will signal for a five-second countdown; failure to restart play within that time will result in the opposing team being awarded a corner kick or taking the throw-in themselves. Additionally, player substitutions will be expedited. Players exiting the field for a substitution will have ten seconds to leave after their number is displayed. Failure to comply means the substitute can only enter the game one minute after play restarts, incentivizing quicker changes and minimizing time spent playing with fewer players.

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Time-wasting will not pay off.