As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, FIFA has introduced a series of new rules designed to speed up play and crack down on time-wasting tactics.

Among the changes are five-second countdowns for throw-ins and goal kicks, along with a 10-second limit for substitutions. Teams that deliberately stall could face an even harsher penalty: being forced to play a man down for one minute, with the player only allowed to return at the next stoppage after that time has elapsed.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Explain (@explain)

The new measures are aimed at keeping matches moving and reducing the delays that often frustrate players and fans alike.

While some supporters are welcoming the faster pace, others are debating whether the stricter penalties could dramatically change the outcome of games. One thing is certain — the 2026 World Cup could look very different from tournaments fans have seen in the past.