FIFA Announces New World Cup Rules: Substituted Players Must Leave Field Within 10 Seconds; VAR Can Review Second Yellows & Corner Kicks

March 27 – FIFA has officially confirmed the new rules that will be implemented at the World Cup:

Substituted Players Must Exit Within 10 Seconds: When a player is substituted, they have 10 seconds to leave the field. If they take longer than 10 seconds, their replacement must wait one minute before entering, leaving their team with a player down for that duration.

5-Second Limit on Goal Kicks & Throw-ins: A five-second countdown will start for goal kicks and throw-ins. If a player takes longer than five seconds, possession is turned over to the opposing team.

Medical Wait Time: Players receiving medical treatment on the field must leave and wait one minute before returning to the pitch, unless the injury was caused by a yellow-card offense.

Expanded VAR Review Scope: VAR can now review second yellow cards that lead to a red card, as well as incorrectly awarded corner kicks.

Strict Limits on Communication with Officials: Only team captains may request explanations from referees. Any other player who speaks with or surrounds the referee will receive a yellow card.

Source: FIFA Official Website