IFAB: discussions underway to enable the game to run more smoothly & minimise interruptions

Should a countdown principle be applied to throw-ins and goal kicks? How can the time lost due to interruptions caused by injuries and substitutions be reduced? Deliberations on these points took place at a videoconference meeting (see below) of IFAB's Football and Technical Advisory Panels (FAP-TAP) chaired by Noel Mooney, chief executive of the Football Association of Wales (FAW), according to the body on 28/10/2025.

"Discussions covered a wide range of topics, with a particular focus on further measures to improve the flow of play and minimise interruptions and time lost," said IFAB.

"Following a summary of the Law changes that came into force on 01/07/2025, the experts were informed about the clarification issued earlier this year regarding accidental double touches at penalty kicks, which will be incorporated into the Laws of the Game 2026-27," added the International Football Association Board.

• IFAB's next meeting will be the annual business meeting, in London (England) on Tuesday 20/01/2026, where the agenda for the annual general meeting, scheduled to take place in Hensol…