Football is set for significant rule changes next season as IFAB, FIFA’s top refereeing body, implements adjustments to improve the game’s pace and fairness.
One major change affects goalkeepers. If a goalkeeper holds the ball for more than eight seconds, the opposing team will now receive a corner kick instead of an indirect free kick. To enforce this, referees will count the seconds with hand signals.
The offside rule remains under review, but one confirmed change is that all VAR decisions will now be made public. Fans and players will be able to see and hear the reasoning behind the referee’s calls.
To reduce conflicts between players and referees, a new rule will restrict who can approach officials. Only the team captain will be allowed to speak with the referee in specific situations, aiming to improve communication and limit heated confrontations.
Another adjustment concerns the neutral drop ball rule. If play stops while the ball is outside the penalty area, possession will be given to the team that last controlled or was about to control the ball. If this isn’t clear, the team that last touched it will receive possession.
FIFA is also addressing incidents where players or staff off the pitch interfere with play. If a substitute or team official touches the ball, the opposing team will be awarded an indirect free kick. However, a red card will only be issued if there is clear intent to interfere.
During the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, referees will announce VAR decisions via stadium speakers to improve transparency. FIFA is also testing body cameras for referees, following positive feedback from initial trials. These cameras will be used in the Club World Cup to enhance referee training and potentially improve officiating standards.
Finally, IFAB is continuing to explore changes to the offside rule under “Wenger’s Law,” which seeks to encourage attacking play. Additional trials will be conducted in selected competitions before any final decision is made.
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