The English Premier League has approved several rule changes that will officially come into effect during the 2026/27 season, with the aim of reducing time-wasting and improving the efficiency of matches.
Among the changes is a rule requiring an injured player to remain off the pitch for at least one minute before returning to play. Teams will also be required to take throw-ins and goal kicks within five seconds, while substituted players will have 10 seconds to leave the field.
In addition, VAR will be used in specific circumstances to correct a second-yellow-card decision when a clear error has been made. A team will also be required to select an outfield player to leave the pitch for one minute whenever play is stopped because of an injury to the goalkeeper.
However, some rules introduced during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including hydration breaks and VAR reviews of wrongly awarded corners, will not be implemented in the Premier League.
