Croatian Football Association Sets New 2026 Rules and Youth Registrations

The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) held a three‑day technical and conditioning seminar ahead of the 2026/27 season, during which the Referees Committee chaired by Bertrand Layec presented the latest amendments to the Laws of the Game approved by IFAB. The changes aim to curb time‑wasting, speed up play and expand VAR authority, including a new 10‑second rule for player substitutions and penalties for exceeding restart time limits. All HNS competitions will apply the revised rules from the start of the season.

In a separate communication, the federation announced the opening of registrations for male youth categories for 2026/27. Clubs must submit entries via the ISHRS system between 28 July and 15 August 2026 for U17, U15, U13 and U11 groups, with optional U18 and U12 slots. Participation requirements differ by league tier, and the competition format will feature regional leagues feeding into national finals slated for May‑June 2027.