Fifa suggests new rule to limit time-wasting after injuries
FIFA has put forward a new proposal to address time-wasting in football matches. The suggested rule would require any player receiving on-field medical attention to stay off the pitch for at least one minute. Pierluigi Collina, FIFA’s referees’ chief, explained that the measure aims to discourage players from exaggerating injuries and to keep the game flowing. The proposal will be discussed by the International Football Association Board, which oversees the Laws of the Game.
Match highlights
- FIFA’s new proposal would enforce a minimum one-minute off-field period for players treated for injuries.
- The International Football Association Board will review the proposal at its annual general meeting.
- The Premier League currently uses a 30-second off-field rule, while Major League Soccer has a similar system for players down for more than 15 seconds.
- FIFA previously trialled a two-minute rule during the Arab Cup, but it faced resistance due to concerns about disadvantaging teams.
- IFAB members have agreed that a fixed time period should be included in the rules, with the one-minute rule seen as a compromise.
