MLS Rule Changes Set to Influence Global Football Standards

The International Football Association Board (Ifab) is poised to adopt two significant rule changes initially implemented by MLS Next Pro, aimed at curbing time-wasting in football. These changes, which have already shown promising results in MLS and its developmental league, are expected to be officially recognized in a meeting scheduled for this weekend. The first rule, known as the timed substitution rule, mandates that a team must play with one fewer player for one minute if a substituted player takes longer than 10 seconds to exit the pitch. The second, referred to as the off-field treatment rule, requires players who remain on the ground for more than 15 seconds after an injury to leave the match for one minute. Notably, there are exceptions for serious injuries and goalkeepers.

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The implementation of these rules has led to a dramatic reduction in stoppages due to injuries, decreasing from an average of five to six stoppages per match to just 1.50 in MLS. In 2025, there were only 12 violations of the timed substitution rule across 4,346 substitutions in 510 matches. Ali Curtis, president of MLS Next Pro, emphasized the immediate positive impact of these rules, stating, “The impact was overnight.” The rules have also influenced player behavior, as demonstrated by Inter Miami forward Luis Suárez, who adjusted his exit speed following a violation of the timed substitution rule.

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The United States has a history of experimenting with football rules, often leading to significant changes in the sport. For instance, the American Soccer League of the 1920s was the first to introduce substitutes, and the North American Soccer League pioneered the backpass rule. These innovations have sometimes faced criticism from traditionalists, but Curtis believes the narrative surrounding American rule changes is evolving. He stated, “We didn’t invent the game but we love it and we’re passionate about it.”

The Guardian

Despite the positive feedback from some quarters, there are dissenting voices regarding the new rules. Lionel Messi, during a match against CF Montréal, expressed frustration with the off-field treatment rule, remarking, “With these types of rules, we’re going nowhere.” This sentiment reflects a broader concern among players about the impact of such regulations on the emotional and competitive aspects of the game.

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In addition to the MLS-led initiatives, Ifab is considering further adjustments to combat time-wasting, including potential penalties for teams delaying goal kicks and throw-ins. Changes to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system are also on the agenda, which may allow for the reversal of incorrectly awarded corner kicks or second yellow cards. As these discussions unfold, the global football community will be watching closely to see how these proposed changes might reshape the game.

The Guardian

• “The impact was overnight,” — Ali Curtis, President of MLS Next Pro

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• “With these types of rules, we’re going nowhere.” — Lionel Messi, Forward, Inter Miami

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• “We didn’t invent the game but we love it and we’re passionate about it,” — Ali Curtis, President of MLS Next Pro

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These developments signal a potential shift in how football is played and regulated, with the United States at the forefront of these changes.

The Guardian