FIFA Set to Back One-Minute Injury Rule

Players who receive treatment for injuries could soon be required to remain off the pitch for one minute. The proposal is expected to be approved at Saturday’s annual general meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB).

IFAB is the independent body responsible for determining and managing the Laws of the Game. The measure, backed by FIFA, forms part of a broader effort to reduce time-wasting and improve match tempo.

Current Rules and Previous Trials

At present, the Laws of the Game do not specify how long an injured player must remain off the field. Domestic competitions set their own standards, with the Premier League introducing a 30-second rule in the 2023–24 season.

FIFA trialled a stricter two-minute requirement at the Arab Cup in December. However, opposition from leagues led to a compromise proposal of one minute.

FIFA referees chief Pierluigi Collina said the aim is to curb time-wasting and improve game flow.

Concerns and Possible Exceptions

Some leagues have raised concerns about unintended consequences, including the possibility of teams conceding while reduced to 10 players. Manchester United experienced such frustration last season when Matthijs de Ligt was treated for a cut, and Brentford scored from a corner during his absence.

Exceptions are expected to apply. Players fouled for yellow- or red-card offences would not be required to stay off the pitch, while goalkeepers and penalty takers would be exempt.

However, IFAB is not expected to introduce a new rule addressing so-called “tactical timeouts,” where goalkeepers go down without a clear injury to halt play.

Additional Countdown Measures

The meeting is also expected to approve new countdown measures following the success of the eight-second rule for goalkeepers holding the ball.

Similar time limits may be introduced for goal-kicks and throw-ins, with possession awarded to the opposition if exceeded. A 10-second rule for substituted players is also proposed, meaning teams could be forced to play short for at least a minute if a player delays leaving the pitch.