Which World Cup Rules Will Remain
Combatting Simulation in the Bundesliga
Recent changes made during the World Cup are set to influence the Bundesliga, particularly regarding the handling of time-wasting and player simulation. The German Football League (DFL) and the refereeing experts from the German Football Association (DFB) plan to analyze data collected from the tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, which will guide future decisions on rule adaptations.
The DFB’s refereeing representative, Alex Feuerherdt, emphasized the need to differentiate between mandatory and optional rule changes, as the latter might evolve from the knockout stages of the tournament. Notably, mandatory changes will come into effect by July 1 across German football.
New Rules Coming to the Bundesliga
- Time Management: Similar to the current countdown for goalkeepers who hold onto the ball too long, referees will now count down five seconds for throw-ins and goal kicks. If play isn’t resumed in this time frame, possession will shift to the opposing team. Additionally, teams must hasten substitutions or face a minute of playing with one less player.
- Treatment Protocols: If a player receives treatment on the field, they will need to exit the pitch and can only return after one minute. This encourages players to think critically about how they claim injuries and whether they genuinely need medical assistance. Former Bundesliga referee Patrick Ittrich lauded this rule as a significant measure against time-wasting through feigned injuries. Exceptions will exist for injuries that have resulted from fouls leading to cards.
- VAR Protocols: The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) will have a new responsibility to review the second yellow card leading to a player’s dismissal. This protocol will carry over to both the Bundesliga and the 2. Bundesliga.
Potential Coming Changes
- Disciplinary Actions: A new rule introduced at the World Cup states that players can receive a red card for discreetly holding their hands over their mouths during confrontations. This aims to deter potential discriminatory behavior, according to FIFA officials.
- VAR for Corner Kicks: The scope of VAR may be expanded to include the ability to assess corner kicks—a functionality not currently employed in the Bundesliga.
- Strict Penalties for Protests: In light of a recent controversy during the Africa Cup Final, where players left the pitch in protest, FIFA has decided that demonstrative exits could lead to a red card. This measure was introduced after Senegal’s almost entire team exited following a disputed penalty decision.
No Fixed Hydration Breaks
Unlike the World Cup, there will be no standard hydration breaks in the Bundesliga or European competitions. The DFL and UEFA intend to assess weather conditions for situational breaks, while referees at the World Cup pause matches for three minutes after approximately 22 minutes of play.
These adaptations reflect a growing commitment to enhance the game’s integrity, aiming for a fairer playing experience. With the possible introduction of these rules in the Bundesliga, players and fans alike can anticipate a shift towards a more dynamic and just game environment.
