The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has announced sweeping rule changes set to take effect in the 2025/26 football season, aimed at improving fairness, pace, and fan engagement.
Key updates include an eight-second limit on goalkeeper ball possession, with violations resulting in a corner kick. Ball drop procedures have been refined for clarity, and accidental contact by off-field personnel will now lead to an indirect free kick rather than disciplinary action.
Referees may now verbally explain VAR decisions to spectators, and assistant referees will reposition closer to the penalty spot for better accuracy. In penalty scenarios, accidental dual-foot touches will lead to a retake rather than a disallowed goal.
Referee body cameras will debut at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, enhancing transparency, while only team captains will be permitted to speak to referees in certain situations, aiming to reduce pressure on officials.
These reforms are set to reshape how the game is played and experienced globally.
