IFAB approves new rule from next season for goalkeepers

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The International Football Association Board approved a new rule from next season for goalkeepers.

The new rule, which is an amendment of Law 12.2 will see a corner kick awarded to the opposing team, if the goalkeeper holds the ball for more than 8 seconds.

This new rule, according to IFAB, is to tackle intentional time wasting tactics.

In a statement released on Saturday, IFAB said, “ After trials have shown a major positive impact where goalkeepers have been holding onto the ball for too long, the IFAB has unanimously decided to amend Law 12.2 (Indirect free kick).

“The amendment means that if a goalkeeper holds the ball for longer than eight seconds (with the referee using a visual five-second countdown), the referee will award a corner kick to the opposing team (rather than the current indirect free kick for more than six seconds).”

The new rules will kick effect from the 2025/2026 football season.

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International Football Association Board