FIFA implements change
Penalty for throw-ins: World Cup referees should take action
June 2, 2026 – 5:30 p.mReading time: 1 min.
Spectators will have to prepare for some changes at the 2026 World Cup. This not only affects the tournament format, but also decisions on the field.
For the first time, 48 nations will take part in the 2026 World Cup; the USA, Canada and Mexico will be the largest World Cup in history to date, measured in terms of the number of participants and games. Not only does the mode change, but also a lot on the pitch. The referees should take more aggressive action against time play in the future.
This is made possible through adjustments by the International Football Association Board (Ifab), which sets the rules for football worldwide. An innovation that will be used for the first time at the tournament in the USA, Mexico and Canada relates to throw-ins. The five-second rule is intended to prevent teams from taking too much time during execution.
The referee must signal a clearly visible countdown with his fingers, which he begins at his own discretion. If a player violates the rule, possession of the ball changes. The rule also applies to goal kicks.
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A new regulation regarding interruptions in treatment is also aimed at preventing excessive time play. If a player receives treatment on the field, he must then remain outside for one minute. However, this does not apply if the injury is the result of a foul in which the referee shows a yellow or red card. Goalkeepers are also exempt from this.
The Ifab has also approved further changes that will be implemented for the first time at the 2026 World Cup. You can find an overview of the most important innovations here.