Saudi referees committee to implement IFAB football law changes from 2026

The referees committee of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation has announced it will implement the International Football Association Board (IFAB) amendments to the Laws of the Game, starting from the 2026-2027 sports season.

The changes require substituted players to leave the pitch within 10 seconds; if delayed, the replacement cannot enter for one minute. Players may wear accessories provided they are safe, non-hazardous, and covered.

Other amendments allow referees to apply the advantage rule when play resumes incorrectly, and permit the video assistant referee (VAR) to review a second yellow card that led to a player's dismissal if it was wrongly issued. VAR can also correct cases of mistaken identity when cards are shown.

Further details of the new amendments

Players receiving treatment off the field must now wait one minute before returning. When play is restarted with a dropped ball, it is given to the team that clearly would have had possession. Only the team captain may communicate with the referee during matches; any player leaving the field to protest a decision will be sent off.

Additionally, referees will no longer issue cards in some cases of denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity or handball if the advantage rule is applied and a goal is scored. VAR may now intervene for fouls occurring before set pieces if they directly affect the outcome.

To reduce time-wasting, a five-second countdown will be enforced for delayed throw-ins or goal kicks. The rules also clarify unintentional double touches during penalty kicks, and allow review of incorrect decisions related to corner kicks under approved guidelines.