As the expanded 32-team Club World Cup gets underway in the United States on June 14, FIFA is introducing eight new rules designed to make the game faster, fairer and fan-friendly.
Here’s a detailed look at the eight major rule changes that will debut at this year’s Club World Cup:
1. Goalkeeper 8-Second Rule
Under this new rule, goalkeepers now have just 8 seconds to release the ball after gaining control. (up from 6), with the referees raising their hands and giving a 5-second visual warning. If they exceed this limit, a corner kick will be awarded to the opposing team.
2. Only Captains Can Talk to the Ref
In an effort to reduce disagreements and chaotic confrontations with referees, only team captains will now be allowed to speak to officials for clarification.
Any non-captain who approaches or argues with the referee risks an immediate yellow card. This rule is intended to prevent player congestion and streamline referee communication, ensuring that disagreements and delays in the game are reduced.
3. The “Arteta Rule” (Touchline Interference)
Nicknamed after Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta – If a coach or substitute accidentally touches the ball before it goes out of bounds, they should be given a warning, not a red card.
Unless it is considered deliberate interference (e.g. stopping a counter-attack). Free kick for accidental interference; red card + free kick for deliberate actions.
4. Double-Touch Penalties: Retake, Don’t Cancel
Following controversies such as Julian Alvarez’s disallowed UCL goal, if the penalty taker accidentally touches the ball twice (e.g. with their standing foot) and scores, the penalty will now be retaken, not denied.
Only deliberate double-touches (e.g. after a rebound) will cancel the goal. This change ensures fairness in the event of unintentional mistakes during spot kicks.
5. AI-Assisted Offside Tech
Semi-automatic offside technology uses 16 cameras + ball sensors to instantly flag offsides of more than 10 cm (4 inches). Assistants receive an earpiece alert (“Offside, offside!”).
The aim is to reduce the risk of injuries caused by defenders reacting too slowly due to late offside calls and to add accuracy to marginal decisions.
6. Referee POV Cams
Referees wear headset cameras, which record key decisions like goals, penalties, and cards. These cameras will be shown from the referee’s perspective on stadium screens and TV later.
7. Fans Can Watch VAR Replays Live
Stadium screens now show real-time VAR replays being reviewed by referees, so fans can see what the referees are reviewing. However, the referee-VAR audio remains private.
8. Tablet-Based Substitutions
Forget paper boards and frantic hand signals – coaches will use tablets to make subs, replacing paper slips, submitting subs electronically via tablets sent to the fourth official.
The Major Changes Thoughts
These changes—from AI offsides to ref cams—aim to restore flow (the 8-second rule), increase fairness (penalty retakes), and engage fans (VAR screens, POV cams).
These changes mark a significant shift in how football is officiated and experienced, both on the field and in the stands. By combining technology, fairness, and fan engagement, FIFA hopes the 2025 Club World Cup will set a new standard for international football competitions.
As the first match gets underway, all eyes will be not only on the players but also on how these new rules will shape the future of the beautiful game.
