IFAB’s New Goalkeeper Rule: A Game-Changer for Time-Wasting?"

Football’s rule-making body, the International Football Association Board (IFAB), has introduced a major rule change aimed at curbing time-wasting by goalkeepers. Starting from the 2025-26 season, goalkeepers will be allowed to hold onto the ball for a maximum of eight seconds—slightly longer than the previous six-second rule. However, if they exceed this time limit, instead of conceding an indirect free-kick as per the current rules, the opposing team will now be awarded a corner kick. This adjustment is designed to ensure goalkeepers do not delay play and keep the game flowing more efficiently.

To enhance transparency and awareness, referees will actively signal the countdown during the final five seconds of the eight-second period. By raising their hand, officials will make it clear to both players and spectators how much time remains before a violation occurs. This approach not only puts additional responsibility on goalkeepers but also prevents confusion and potential disputes over time-wasting calls. The change is part of IFAB’s broader efforts to improve the pace of the game and make it more engaging for fans worldwide.

Before implementing this rule, IFAB tested it in select competitions, including Premier League 2 and Malta’s domestic leagues. The trials showed promising results, with goalkeepers adapting quickly and fewer delays in play. Encouraged by these findings, football’s governing bodies decided to approve the rule for global implementation. As teams prepare for the next season, goalkeepers and coaches will need to adjust their strategies to avoid unnecessary corner kicks, making ball distribution and decision-making even more critical in modern football.