IFAB introduces an eight-second rule for GK’s, to be implemented from ….

IFAB introduces an eight-second rule for GK’s, to be implemented from Club World Cup 2025. Previously, if a goalkeeper held the ball for more than six seconds, an indirect free kick was awarded to the opposing team. Following a series of successful trials, the IFAB has decided to increase this threshold to eight seconds. This change is intended to discourage prolonged time-wasting and promote a more dynamic style of play. Other changes include guidelines for team captains in managing interactions with referees, adjustments to dropped ball procedures, and new protocols for the use of Video Assistant Referees (VAR) The 2025/26 season will see these changes come into effect, with the FIFA ClubWorld Cup 2025 being one of the first major competitions to implement them. The following decisions were also taken at the 139th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the IF AB, hosted by the Irish Football Association (IFA) in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The decision to adjust the goalkeeper rule comes after trials showed that such changes significantly improved the flow of the game. By pushing goalkeepers to release the ball more quickly, theIFAB hopes to reduce stoppages and encourage more attacking play.

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