FIFA Aims to Boost Match Pace and Tackle Time-Wasting at Upcoming World Cup

FIFA is introducing several new measures at this year's World Cup to curtail time-wasting and sustain the pace of matches. Officials will focus on rule changes that compel players to adhere strictly to existing guidelines, ensuring games progress smoothly throughout the competition.

Specific rules being enforced include issuing red cards to players who cover their mouths during confrontations. Additionally, referees will initiate five-second visual countdowns for goal kicks and throw-ins, promoting quicker play. The adjustment permits time-keeping akin to existing goalkeeper rules, while substitutions must occur within 10 seconds, barring specific conditions.

The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) protocol has also undergone revisions, which include verifying decisions like mistakenly awarded cards and ensuring fairness is upheld through objective video analysis. Despite these attempts to increase efficiency, FIFA has emphasized that maintaining fairness and player safety remains paramount during match periods.

(With inputs from agencies.)