Football’s governing body is considering introducing time limits for throw-ins and corners to reduce time-wasting in the game. This potential rule change follows the success of the eight-second rule for goalkeepers, which was introduced at the start of the season. According to Stats Perform data, the ball was in play for an average of 54 minutes and 21 seconds in the first 40 games of the Premier League season, down 133 seconds from the previous campaign.
Possible Changes
- Time Limits: Throw-ins and corners could be subject to time limits to increase effective playing time and improve the fan experience.
- Countdowns: Senior figures in football have suggested that countdowns could be trialed for other restarts, similar to the eight-second rule for goalkeepers.
- Trials: Any trials would need to consider the time required for teams to reset and allow for long throws, ensuring a balance between reducing time-wasting and maintaining the game’s flow.
Rationale Behind the Potential Rule Change
- Decreased In-Play Time: The decrease in in-play time this season may be attributed to a higher volume of long throws, which require more preparation time from the attacking team.
- Set-Piece Goals: Teams have already registered set-piece goals, highlighting the importance of these plays in the game.
Next Steps
- IFAB Meeting: The International Football Association Board (IFAB) will discuss potential rule changes at its next annual general meeting in Wales in February.
- Trial Period: A trial period would be required to test potential adjustments before introducing them at the start of a campaign ¹.
