IFAB to Vote on MLS Innovations and VAR Expansion – Football Rule Changes on the Horizon

The International Football Association Board (IFAB), the body responsible for the Laws of the Game, will convene on Saturday, February 28, 2026, to vote on significant proposed changes to football regulations. These changes include potential global adoption of rules pioneered by Major League Soccer (MLS) and an expansion of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) capabilities.

MLS Rules Poised for Global Implementation

Two innovative rules developed and successfully trialed in MLS and MLS NEXT Pro are on the agenda: the Off-Field Treatment Rule and the Timed Substitution Rule. Both rules were initially implemented in MLS NEXT Pro, then adopted by MLS in 2024. These proposals aim to address issues of time-wasting and improve game flow.

• Off-Field Treatment Rule: This rule addresses players receiving medical attention.
• Timed Substitution Rule: This rule focuses on streamlining the substitution process.

Data from MLS demonstrates a significant impact from these rules. Injury-related stoppages decreased by 72%, from an average of 5-6 per match to 1.50. 99% of substitutions in 2025 occurred in 10 seconds or less, with only 12 violations of the Timed Substitution Rule across 510 matches.

VAR Expansion Under Consideration

In addition to the MLS-driven changes, IFAB will discuss expanding the scope of VAR intervention. Currently, the focus is on allowing VAR to correct clear errors in decisions regarding corner kicks – determining whether a goal kick or corner should be awarded – and assessing the fairness of second yellow cards, a situation not currently reviewable by VAR.

The aim is to increase VAR’s interventionism while maintaining speed, and efficiency.

Addressing Time-Wasting

IFAB is also considering a rule requiring players receiving medical attention to remain off the field for at least one minute before returning to play. This proposal, initially tested with a two-minute period during the Arab Cup, seeks to combat perceived time-wasting tactics. The current discussion leans towards a one-minute minimum.

Further proposals include implementing timed countdowns for goal kicks and throw-ins, with infractions resulting in a corner or throw-in for the opposing team. A rule mandating substituted players to exit the field within ten seconds is also being considered.

The proposal often referred to as the Wenger law, which would allow coaches to request VAR reviews, will be revisited at a later date.

FAQ

What is IFAB?

The International Football Association Board is the body responsible for the Laws of the Game in football.

What are the two MLS rules being considered for global adoption?

The Off-Field Treatment Rule and the Timed Substitution Rule.

What changes are being considered for VAR?

Expanding VAR’s scope to include reviewing corner kick decisions and assessing the fairness of second yellow cards.

These potential rule changes represent a significant step towards modernizing football, improving game flow, and ensuring fair play. The decisions made by IFAB on February 28th will likely shape the future of the sport for years to come.