FIFA has announced a new rule aimed at preventing teams from using goalkeeper injuries as unofficial tactical timeouts during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Under the new measure, players will no longer be allowed to gather around their coaches or approach the technical area when a goalkeeper goes down injured during a match.
Instead, outfield players will be required to remain on the field while medical staff attend to the goalkeeper. The move is intended to reduce time-wasting and maintain the flow of games.
The decision follows growing concerns over the increasing use of so-called “goalkeeper tactical timeouts,” where teams take advantage of injury stoppages to receive coaching instructions, reorganise tactics, or disrupt the momentum of their opponents.
FIFA believes the practice goes against the spirit of fair competition.
FIFA referees’ chief, Pierluigi Collina, said officials have already informed coaches of all 48 participating nations that referees will actively enforce the new rule throughout the tournament.
He stressed that while goalkeepers have every right to receive treatment when injured, other players should not use those moments as an opportunity to hold team meetings with coaches.
The rule is part of a broader package of changes approved by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) ahead of the tournament.
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Other measures include stricter rules on time-wasting, quicker substitutions, expanded VAR powers, and new guidelines designed to improve match control and fairness.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, will be the largest in history, featuring 48 teams.
FIFA hopes the latest changes will help ensure a faster, fairer and more entertaining tournament for players, officials and fans around the world.
