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FIFA Proposes Mandatory Off-Field Time for Injured Players to Enhance Match Flow
FIFA is advocating for a new regulation that would require players receiving medical treatment for injuries to remain off the pitch for a minimum of one minute. This initiative is part of a broader effort to safeguard the continuity of football matches and minimize delays caused by stoppages.
Context and Current Practices
Currently, the Laws of the Game do not specify a mandatory duration for which an injured player must stay off the field after receiving treatment. This ambiguity has led to varied interpretations across domestic leagues. For instance, the English Premier League implemented a 30-second mandatory off-field period at the start of the 2023-2024 season to address this issue.
FIFA’s Push for Stricter Measures
Despite some leagues adopting their own guidelines, FIFA contends that more decisive action is necessary to curb time-wasting and maintain the pace of matches. To test this, FIFA conducted experimental trials during the Arab Cup in December, enforcing a two-minute off-field interval for injured players.
Reactions and Deliberations at IFAB
During the January meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB)—the body responsible for overseeing the Laws of the Game—there was consensus on introducing a fixed minimum off-field period. However, opinions diverged on the exact length, with significant resistance to the proposed two-minute duration.
Expert Insights
Pierluigi Collina, head of FIFA referees, emphasized that the two-minute rule aims to discourage deliberate delays and enhance the overall rhythm of the game. He highlighted that consistent enforcement of such a rule could lead to fairer and more engaging matches worldwide.
Looking Ahead
The final decision on the duration and implementation of this rule will be made at IFAB’s upcoming annual general meeting. If adopted, this change could set a new standard for injury management in football, balancing player safety with the sport’s dynamic nature.
Additional Considerations
With football matches averaging around 95 minutes including stoppage time, even small reductions in unnecessary delays can significantly improve viewer experience and match integrity. Similar approaches have been trialed in other sports, such as rugby, where injury assessments are strictly timed to maintain game flow.
