IFAB Trials New Time‑Wasting Rules in England and Netherlands

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has approved a set of experimental rule changes aimed at reducing time‑wasting and simulation in football. The most prominent rule requires a team to play with ten players for one minute whenever a goalkeeper receives medical assistance, with the coach selecting the player to leave the field. Additional measures tighten goal‑kick and throw‑in timing, limit substitution windows, and expand VAR powers to correct certain decisions.

The new regulations will be trialled in England during a Carabao Cup preliminary match between Tranmere Rovers and Rochdale, and in the Netherlands at the Johan Cruyff Super Cup featuring PSV Eindhoven and AZ Alkmaar. IFAB will monitor the outcomes, and successful adoption could see the rules become permanent worldwide from the 2027‑28 season.