New Rule Limits Goalkeepers to 8 Seconds of Ball Possession

The International Football Association Board introduces a rule change penalizing goalkeepers with a corner kick for exceeding time limits, effective from June 2025.

Goalkeepers will be allowed to hold the ball for a maximum of 8 seconds, up from the previous 6-second limit.
Violations will now result in a corner kick for the opposing team instead of an indirect free kick.
Referees will visibly count down the final 5 seconds to ensure clarity and enforcement.
The rule aims to reduce time-wasting by goalkeepers and was tested successfully in trials.
The change will debut at the FIFA Club World Cup starting June 14, 2025, before broader implementation.