aAs the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the sport’s governing body is considering bold changes to the rules of the game to improve the flow of matches and reduce time-wasting tactics.
With less than six months left until tournaments begin in the United States, Canada and Mexico, the new rules have sparked debate among fans, players and officials. These potential changes could change the way the game is played on the world stage and demonstrate FIFA’s willingness to experiment with innovative ideas.
Deadly shooting occurs at World Cup venue
One of the most controversial proposals focuses on on-field injury management. Currently, players who require medical treatment must leave the pitch and can return to the pitch if the referee allows them to do so. In practice, this often takes only a few seconds, and critics argue that players can abuse this rule to disrupt the flow of the game.
Under the proposed rules, players undergoing treatment would have to leave the field for at least two minutes after play resumes, leaving teams temporarily short-handed. FIFA officials believe this adjustment could prevent false injuries, maximize actual playing time and ultimately improve the pace and rhythm of the game.
Importantly, the new rules do not apply in all situations. Players and goalkeepers injured due to fouls that result in yellow or red cards are exempt from mandatory absences.
These exceptions are intended to address unduly time-wasting tactics while maintaining fairness. By targeting only certain scenarios, FIFA hopes to strike a balance between the aim of reducing unnecessary interruptions and the integrity of competition.
Trial at 2025 FIFA Arab Cup
FIFA tested this rule at the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup, which was held in Qatar from December 1st to December 18th. The test, overseen by referee committee president Pierluigi Collina, required players who received medical treatment on the pitch to be sent off for two minutes after play resumed, leaving teams temporarily short by one player.
Morocco won the tournament after defeating Jordan in the final, but the main focus of the trial was on whether the rules effectively curbed time-wasting, rather than determining the outcome of the match.
Following the conclusion of the Arab Cup, FIFA began analyzing data to assess the impact of this rule on “net playing time” and the flow of matches. The findings will be submitted to the International Football Association Board (IFAB) in early 2026, which will then decide whether to formally implement the measures ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
This initiative is part of FIFA’s broader efforts to innovate and modernize the game. Alongside medical regulations, other proposed changes, such as a review of how offside is judged, could further impact the pace and excitement of top-level football.
As the World Cup approaches, these discussions highlight the governing body’s continued focus on fairness, entertainment and sporting integrity on soccer’s biggest stage.
