FIFA Considers One-Minute Off-Field Rule For Injured Players To Improve Match Flow

FIFA has proposed a new rule that would require players receiving treatment for injuries to stay off the pitch for one minute, a move aimed at reducing time-wasting, limiting disruptions, and improving the flow of matches.

The proposal is expected to be discussed at the Annual General Meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB) on Saturday. If approved, the rule would become part of football’s official Laws of the Game globally.

Currently, the Laws of the Game do not specify a mandatory off-field period after treatment, leaving domestic leagues to set their own regulations. For instance, the Premier League has applied a 30-second rule since the 2023‑24 season.

FIFA tested a two-minute off-field period during the Arab Cup in December. Pierluigi Collina, head of FIFA referees, explained that the trial aimed to reduce time-wasting while maintaining match tempo.

In January, IFAB members agreed that a fixed period should be added to the Laws, but the exact duration sparked debate. The proposed one-minute rule is seen as a compromise, balancing fairness with the need to keep games moving.

The concept is similar to Major League Soccer in the United States, where players must leave the field if they remain on the ground for more than 15 seconds while receiving medical attention.