New rules in football: what will change in the 2025/26 season?

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has decided to introduce new rules in football starting from the 2025/26 season. These changes are intended to further improve the order of the game, make refereeing decisions fair and transparent, and legalize the actions of players. Below we will get acquainted with these new rules.

1. New restrictions for the goalkeeper

Starting from the new season, if the goalkeeper holds the ball in his hands for more than 8 seconds, the referee will consider this a violation and a corner kick will be awarded to the opposing team. This process is carried out in the following order:

• The referee raises his hand and counts down 5 seconds.
  
• The count starts when the goalkeeper gains full control of the ball.
  
• If the goalkeeper repeats this offence, he will be given a yellow card.
  
• The corner kick is taken from the corner closest to the point where the goalkeeper committed the offence.
  

2. Only the captain can speak to the referee

Only the team captains can speak to the referees. This rule was introduced to maintain order on the pitch and reduce pressure on the referees.

3. Changes to the rules for putting the ball back into play

Starting from the new season, if play is stopped inside the penalty area, the ball will be awarded to the goalkeeper of the defending team. If it is stopped outside the penalty area:

• The ball will be awarded to the team in possession when play was stopped.
  
• If the referee is unable to determine this, the team that last touched the ball will be awarded possession.
  

4. A free kick is awarded if a person outside the field interferes with the ball

If a member of the coaching staff, a substitute or a sent-off player touches or deliberately interferes with the ball as it leaves the field of play, a free kick is awarded to the opposing team. This rule was introduced to prevent some incidents observed by fans.

5. Clarification of the offside rule

In the case of an offside situation when the goalkeeper handles the ball, the point where the ball last touched is now taken into account. This makes it much easier for the referees to determine offside.

6. Announcing decisions after video reviews to fans

Tournament organizers can now require referees to announce decisions made after VAR or long-term video reviews to fans. This will make it easier for spectators to understand refereeing decisions.

These changes to football are aimed at making the game more legal and orderly. In particular, changes to goalkeepers' long ball possession, rules on communication with referees and offside detection will be important news for fans and players. Follow “Zamin” news on “Telegram”