FIFA emphasizes tempo and new rules for World Cup to curb time-wasting
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FIFA says tempo, limiting time-wasting, will be point of emphasis at World Cup
New Rules to Maintain Match Tempo
Officials for the upcoming World Cup will prioritize maintaining the pace of play by strictly enforcing new rules designed to reduce time-wasting. This initiative aims to minimize disruptions during matches, according to Pierluigi Collina, FIFA chief refereeing officer and chair of the referees committee. The tournament, featuring 48 teams, is set to begin in less than two weeks.
Among the key changes, referees will be vigilant about players covering their mouths during confrontational situations. Such actions, if deemed not to be friendly conversations, could result in a red card. However, players shielding their mouths in non-confrontational discussions will not face penalties.
To further accelerate play, referees can implement a five-second visual countdown for both goal kicks and throw-ins. Should a goal kick not be taken within this timeframe, the opposing team will be awarded a corner kick. Similarly, a delayed throw-in will result in possession being given to the opponents. This measure is consistent with the existing eight-second goalkeeper rule for releasing the ball after a save.
Another new regulation mandates that substituted players must exit the field within 10 seconds, unless specific circumstances like injuries or security concerns arise. Failure to comply could mean the replacement player cannot enter the field for at least one minute, leaving the team with 10 players temporarily.
Expanded VAR Powers and Player Conduct
The protocol for the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) has also been clarified and expanded in certain areas. VAR can now be utilized to review situations where red cards are issued following a clearly incorrect second yellow card or in cases of mistaken identity. Additionally, incorrectly awarded corner kicks can now be checked by VAR.
A significant update to VAR protocol allows for reviews of clear offences committed by the attacking team before the ball is in play at a corner kick or free kick, particularly if these directly impact goals, penalty kicks, or sanctions. If an offence is identified before the ball is in play, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. This change addresses scenarios where an attacking player might illegally block a defender before a set-piece, as highlighted by an incident involving England and Uruguay where a goal was scored after an attacker blocked a defender’s run before a corner kick.
FIFA is also addressing the tactic of players feigning injury to create tactical timeouts. While goalkeepers have the right to be injured, players will no longer be permitted to leave the field to consult with coaches during such stoppages. Collina emphasized that referees will be proactive in preventing teams from exploiting these situations. This approach aligns with temporary measures implemented in leagues like the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), where players must remain on the field or gather in the centre circle if a goalkeeper is injured.
Other Key Rule Adjustments
Players who leave the field of play in protest of an official’s decision may also face a red card. Furthermore, teams that cause matches to be abandoned will automatically forfeit the game. This penalty also extends to team officials who encourage players to leave the field.
Outfield players receiving treatment on the pitch will now be required to remain off the field for at least one minute after play resumes, with exceptions for goalkeepers, collisions, head injuries, concussions, or if the injured player is due to take a penalty. Despite the emphasis on speedy play, matches will include mandatory three-minute hydration breaks midway through each half.
These comprehensive rule changes aim to enhance the flow of the game and reduce time-wasting tactics, though the inclusion of hydration breaks means matches may not necessarily be shorter in duration.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has approved these rule changes, which will be applied for the World Cup and reassessed after the tournament.
The World Cup is scheduled to begin in less than two weeks.
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