Football lawmakers have made progress in their efforts to prevent goalkeepers from time-wasting when in possession of the ball. In March, it was announced that leagues would be invited to test new methods of punishment for goalkeepers who hold onto the ball for too long.

Currently, an indirect free kick is awarded if a goalkeeper exceeds six seconds, but the proposed change would see the opposition earn a corner or throw-in if goalkeepers exceed eight seconds. If the trial is successful, the new rule could be introduced across all competitions in time for the 2026/27 season.

Initially, tests will only be allowed outside the top two divisions in any given country and won’t be seen in ‘A’-level international matches. The results of these tests will be considered by the IFAB in October and November 2025.

The IFAB deemed that the current format of referees issuing an indirect free kick was providing too great an advantage to the opposing team. Additionally, there were challenges in managing free kicks in close proximity to the goal.

The hope is that the change in punishment will lead to officials being more likely to combat goalkeepers who take advantage and hold onto the ball too long. It has been noted that there are occasions where goalkeepers attempt to release the ball but are unable to do so for legitimate reasons, taking between six and eight seconds.

The IFAB believes that a goalkeeper holding the ball for too long is an unfair tactic, as the opposing team has no possibility to regain possession. The procedure being tested will see referees start counting eight seconds when a goalkeeper has control of the ball with their hands.

The official will raise a hand to indicate the countdown from five seconds. The goalkeepers will receive a warning for their first offense and a caution for subsequent offenses.

Additionally, the resultant corner or throw will be taken from the side of the field nearest the goalkeeper’s position.