Time-Wasting Rules at the 2026 World Cup
FIFA has implemented aggressive new measures to combat time-wasting at the 2026 World Cup. These changes aim to increase effective playing time closer to 60 minutes per match.
8-Second Goalkeeper Rule
The traditional 6-second rule for goalkeepers holding the ball has been replaced:
• Goalkeepers now have 8 seconds to release the ball after gaining possession
• A visible countdown clock will appear on stadium screens
• First violation results in a warning; repeated violations earn an indirect free kick
• The longer time limit acknowledges the reality that the old 6-second rule was rarely enforced
Throw-In and Goal Kick Countdowns
• Players taking throw-ins must do so within 15 seconds of the ball going out
• Goal kicks must be taken within 15 seconds
• A visible countdown will be displayed for fans and players
• Failure to comply results in possession being awarded to the opposing team
Injured Player Exit Rule
• Players who receive medical treatment on the pitch must leave the field within 1 minute
• They can re-enter only after the referee signals permission
• This prevents the common tactic of feigning injury to waste time
• Serious injuries are excluded from this requirement at the referee's discretion
Substitution Time Limit
• Substitutes must enter the pitch within 10 seconds of the departing player crossing the touchline
• Players being substituted must leave by the nearest touchline, not walk to the halfway line
• These rules eliminate the slow walk-off that has been a major source of wasted time
Expected Impact
FIFA estimates these rules will add 8-12 minutes of effective playing time per match compared to previous tournaments.