Major Changes in Football Regulations Ahead of World Cup
As of Monday, June 1st, a new set of rules has been implemented in global football, prompting fans attending the World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States to adapt to these changes. Players, too, must adhere to these updated regulations, which come with stricter penalties for violations. The objective behind these innovations is to enhance the flow of the game while addressing various issues within the sport.
One of the most significant changes involves the penalization of players who cover their mouths during confrontations with opponents. This behavior, often used to obscure what is being said, can now result in a red card during the World Cup. This rule aims to prevent discriminatory conduct and was inspired by an incident in the UEFA Champions League where Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni was suspected of making a racist remark after pulling his shirt over his mouth during a confrontation with Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has publicly advocated for this new regulation as part of a broader initiative to promote respect and integrity in football. Additionally, players who leave the field in protest of a referee's decision can also receive a red card. This applies to team officials who encourage such actions as well. In cases where a team causes a match to be abandoned in this manner, the result will generally be awarded to the opposing team.
This tightening of rules follows a controversial incident involving Senegal's national team during the Africa Cup final in January, where they protested a penalty decision by retreating to the locker rooms. Although Senegal eventually won the match 1-0 after extra time, the African Football Confederation later ruled that their departure constituted forfeiture, declaring Morocco as the champions.
With the expansion of the World Cup from 32 to 48 teams, a new knockout round featuring 32 teams—the Round of 32—will be introduced. This change increases the likelihood of players missing matches due to receiving a second yellow card. To address this, FIFA has adjusted the existing rule: cautions will now be wiped clean not only after the quarter-finals but for the first time after the three group stage matches.
To prevent goalkeepers from delaying the game by holding onto the ball for too long, a countdown system initiated last year will be expanded. Referees will count down five seconds for throw-ins and goal kicks. If play does not resume before the countdown ends, possession is awarded to the opposing team.
Players will also be required to expedite their substitutions, leaving the field no later than ten seconds after the fourth official indicates the change. If they fail to do so, they must still exit, while the incoming player must wait at least one minute before re-entering the field during the next stoppage in play.
In cases where a player is treated for an injury, they must leave the field and wait for one minute before returning. The North American Major League Soccer (MLS) has recently implemented a mandatory two-minute stoppage, a rule that sparked complaints from Argentine superstar Lionel Messi when he had to watch from the sidelines.
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) is also set to gain additional authority, now able to review three more scenarios and intervene in the event of referee errors.
While it has been customary for players to refresh themselves on the sidelines during high temperatures, the World Cup will now feature two designated water breaks per match, regardless of weather conditions. Referees will pause the game around the 22nd and 67th minutes for three minutes each time. FIFA aims to create equal conditions across all matches, although critics point out the potential for television networks to use these interruptions for advertising opportunities.
As reported by sport.orf.at.
