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IFAB Introduces Timed Measures to Speed Up World Cup Play

2/23/2026

27 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) plans to speed up play at the FIFA World Cup by introducing new time-related measures.
A five-second countdown will be used for throw-ins and goal kicks.
Referees will initiate the countdown if players delay restarts.
A 10-second substitution limit, a one-minute off-pitch rule for injured players, and new VAR protocols to check corner awards and red cards will be implemented.

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Story summary

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) plans to speed up play at the FIFA World Cup by introducing new time-related measures.
A five-second countdown will be used for throw-ins and goal kicks.
Referees will initiate the countdown if players delay restarts.
A 10-second substitution limit, a one-minute off-pitch rule for injured players, and new VAR protocols to check corner awards and red cards will be implemented.