The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has ratified four new rules that will be implemented at the 2026 FIFA World Cup to combat time-wasting.

The changes were approved at IFAB’s 140th Annual General Meeting in Hensol, Wales, on February 28, 2026, after thorough deliberations by stakeholders.

One of the rules states that a substituted player will have 10 seconds to leave the field. If he takes longer, the incoming player must wait at least one minute before entering, to prevent unnecessary delays.

FIFA official explains what would happen if Iran boycotts 2026 World Cup

Additionally, if a player requests medical assistance on the field, he must leave the pitch immediately for play to resume and remain off for one minute.

However, exceptions may be made depending on the severity of the injury. This measure is aimed at limiting the exploitation of injuries to delay matches when scores favor a team.

Another rule allows referees to start a five-second countdown if they believe time is being wasted during a throw-in or goal kick. If the ball is not put back into play within that time, possession will be awarded to the opposing team either a throw-in or, in the case of a goal kick, a corner kick.

As part of the reforms, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) will now be able to review second yellow cards and corner kicks if a mistake is detected. This includes red cards resulting from incorrect yellow cards, cases of mistaken identity, and wrongly awarded corner kicks.

Despite these changes, IFAB is reportedly considering additional rules to punish players or team officials who leave the field in protest against a referee’s decision, as well as players who cover their mouths when confronting opponents during matches.

SB/JE

Watch highlights from the Ghana Boxing Federation logo unveiling below: