FIFA has proposed a rule that requires injured players to leave the field of play for one minute. This proposal is intended to cut down on time waste and keep matches moving. There is no law that specifies the length of time a player has to be off after an injury. Instead, leagues are free to decide their own regulations.
In the season 2023-24, Premier League introduced 30-second guidelines for treating players. FIFA tried a 2-minute rule for off-field conduct during the Arab Cup. However, concerns about fairness led them to reduce the proposed time to just one minute.
Reduce Time Wastage Without Harming Players
Pierluigi Collina explains the purpose of the rule, which is to prevent players from using injury to slow down the game. Major League Soccer uses a system similar to this, in which players are required to leave the field after 15 seconds of lying on the ground while being treated.
This proposal is a compromise. A mandatory absence that is too long could be a disadvantage to teams and make it easy for their opponents score. Brentford scored when a Manchester United footballer had to leave for medical treatment last season.
Exceptions To The Rule
There are certain players or situations that do not fall under the “one-minute” rule. The one-minute rule does not apply to goalkeepers, players who take penalties, or those whose opponent receives a yellow card.
The Countdown Rule for Faster Play
The International Football Association Board, or IFAB for short, also approves other measures that will keep the match moving. There are also countdowns for substitutes and goalkeepers. The substitute must be off the field within 10 seconds or they will not allow them to enter the game.
The IFAB will approve VAR reviews of incorrectly issued second yellow cards. The competitions can also choose to have VAR review corners. The Canadian Premier League could also test Arsene’s light-offside system.
