New Rules Set to Transform 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Experience
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, kicking off in the United States on June 15, introduces a groundbreaking format featuring 32 teams and a host of new rules aimed at enhancing the competitive integrity and viewing experience for fans.
Among the significant changes are eight new rules that will be implemented during the tournament:
1. Goalkeeper Time Limit: Goalkeepers are now prohibited from holding the ball for more than 8 seconds. If they exceed this limit, a corner kick will be awarded to the opposing team. This rule aims to reduce time-wasting and has been positively received during trials in youth leagues.
2. Communication Restrictions: Only team captains will be allowed to communicate with referees during matches. Non-captain players who violate this rule will receive a yellow card, reinforcing the importance of respectful interactions with officials.
3. Introduction of the “Arteta Rule”: Named after Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, this rule states that if a coach or substitute unintentionally touches the ball before it goes out of play, an indirect free kick will be awarded, but no further punishment will occur.
4. Penalty Double Touches: Players who accidentally touch the ball with their own foot during a penalty kick will have the penalty retaken if it results in a goal. If it misses, an indirect free kick will be awarded unless the defense benefits from the situation.
5. AI-Powered Offside Technology: The tournament will debut a computer-led system to automatically signal offside when a player is beyond the threshold of 4 inches (approximately 10 cm), aiming to prevent injuries from delayed offside flags.
6. Referee Cameras: Referees will wear cameras providing a new perspective for TV and stadium audiences. While only the pre-match coin toss will be broadcast live, critical moments will be shown to assist in VAR decisions.
7. VAR Footage for Fans: Big screens in stadiums will allow fans to view VAR reviews in real-time, increasing transparency around key decisions, although referee-VAR discussions will remain private until after the match.
8. Digital Substitution Requests: Coaches will now submit substitution orders via tablets, streamlining communication with the fourth official and minimizing errors during match interruptions.
