New Football Refereeing Rules Set for 2025
IFAB announces plans to test revolutionary refereeing rules in 2025, targeting fair play and reduced time-wasting in football.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has unveiled plans to test new refereeing rules in 2025, aiming to revolutionize the game. These measures include addressing goalkeeper time-wasting, optimizing VAR costs, and improving player behavior.
One significant focus is on enforcing the rule limiting goalkeepers to holding the ball for six seconds. This rule has often been overlooked, and IFAB is exploring changes, such as extending the limit to eight seconds or penalizing violations with a corner kick or free kick.
Another major proposal is limiting player protests to referees, allowing only the team captain to communicate with match officials. To support this, some referees are already using body cameras to enhance accountability and security.
Additional innovations include streamlining VAR usage to make it more accessible across leagues and considering rule adjustments for handball and offside scenarios. With input from legends like Arsène Wenger, Luis Figo, and refereeing icons such as Pierluigi Collina, these changes promise to modernize football and ensure fair play.