FIFA proposes a one-minute off-field rule for injured players to reduce time-wasting and improve match flow in global football

FIFA has proposed a one-minute off-field rule requiring players who receive on-field medical treatment to remain off the pitch for at least 60 seconds, as part of efforts to curb time-wasting and maintain match tempo.

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The proposal, reported by BBC Sport on Monday, will be discussed at the upcoming annual general meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB), which oversees the Laws of the Game. If approved, the rule would be applied globally across professional football.

Currently, the Laws of the Game do not mandate a minimum off-field period after treatment, though domestic leagues may enforce their own guidelines.

The Premier League, for example, introduced a 30-second off-field rule at the start of the 2023–24 season.

FIFA previously trialled a two-minute rule during the Arab Cup in December, but concerns arose that such a lengthy absence could unfairly disadvantage teams.

Pierluigi Collina, FIFA’s referees’ chief, explained that the trial aimed to discourage players from exaggerating injuries and disrupting match flow.

He noted that Major League Soccer already employs a similar system requiring players to leave the pitch temporarily if they remain down for more than 15 seconds while medical staff attend.

IFAB members agreed in January that a fixed time period should be incorporated into the Laws of the Game.

The proposed one-minute rule is seen as a compromise between fairness to teams and maintaining the pace of matches.

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If adopted, the rule could alter in-game strategies, particularly in tightly contested fixtures where time management is critical.