Football is set to undergo a significant rule change aimed at punishing time-wasting goalkeepers. The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has introduced a new regulation that instructs referees to use finger-counting action, marking a pivotal shift in the enforcement of game rules.
As per the existing laws of football, goalkeepers are allowed to hold onto the ball for six seconds before releasing it. However, this rule is seldom enforced, leading to frequent violations especially during the latter stages of matches where goalkeepers exceed this limit as a strategy to waste time and disrupt play.
The lack of enforcement can be attributed primarily to two factors. Firstly, after six seconds have elapsed, goalkeepers often find themselves surrounded by rival players particularly during set-piece situations making it challenging for them to distribute the ball immediately. Secondly, many consider the current punishment - an indirect free-kick inside the penalty area - too severe for what is generally perceived as a minor offence.
Eight-second limit with stricter enforcement
Effective from July 1st 2025, IFAB's revised law will increase the maximum time limit that a goalkeeper can hold onto the ball from six seconds to eight seconds. However, stricter measures will be implemented alongside this extension:
- Referees will visibly count down using their fingers during the last five seconds of this time limit.
- If a goalkeeper exceeds this limit instead of awarding an indirect free-kick as previously done; IFAB proposes giving throw-ins or even corners if necessary.
This new rule aims not only at increasing fairness but also enhancing game dynamics by ensuring compliance with regulations and reducing disruptions caused by deliberate delays.
Trial phase and feedback
Currently being trialed in Premier League 2 and Malta's local league; the new rule penalises goalkeepers with a corner kick if they fail to release the ball within the stipulated time. The feedback from officials and teams has been largely positive, indicating a promising future for this rule change.
IFAB released statement:
"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)."
This significant rule change by IFAB is set to bring about a more disciplined approach towards time management in football matches. It will be interesting to see how these changes impact game strategies and dynamics in the coming years.
