Story by Trusida, Sports Editor
WORLD football governing body FIFA has introduced a new regulation aimed at curbing time-wasting tactics involving injury stoppages, as part of broader efforts to preserve the flow, fairness and entertainment value of the game ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The new measure targets situations where goalkeepers receive treatment on the pitch, a tactic that has often been criticised for disrupting matches and slowing down play.
FIFA says the regulation forms part of an ongoing drive to reduce gamesmanship and ensure matches remain fast-paced and engaging for players, officials and supporters alike.
The move comes as football’s global governing body continues implementing reforms designed to improve the overall spectacle of the sport ahead of the expanded 48-team World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico in 2026.
The latest rule change is part of a wider enforcement strategy aimed at addressing long-standing concerns over deliberate delays and interruptions during matches.
In recent years, FIFA has introduced more accurate calculations of added time, strengthened enforcement of rules governing goalkeeper ball retention and encouraged referees to take firmer action against unnecessary delays during substitutions, free-kicks and other set-piece situations.
Football authorities believe the measures will help maintain the tempo of matches while discouraging tactics designed to run down the clock and gain an unfair advantage.
The reforms also reflect growing calls from players, coaches and supporters for greater consistency in officiating and stricter enforcement of existing laws intended to protect the integrity of the game.
With the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup gathering pace, FIFA says improving match flow and reducing avoidable stoppages remains a key priority as it seeks to deliver a more entertaining and competitive tournament.
