New FIFA Rule Limits Goalkeepers to 8 Seconds of Ball Possession

The rule, effective June 2025, replaces indirect free kicks for violations with corner kicks to encourage stricter enforcement.

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has approved a rule change allowing goalkeepers to hold the ball for up to eight seconds, up from the current six-second limit.
Violations of the rule will now result in a corner kick for the opposing team instead of an indirect free kick, a less severe penalty aimed at increasing enforcement.
Referees will visibly count down the final five seconds to ensure clarity and consistency in implementing the rule.
Trials of the new rule demonstrated a significant reduction in time-wasting by goalkeepers, according to IFAB officials.
The rule will debut at the Club World Cup in June 2025 and will be adopted in domestic leagues, including Germany's, starting in July 2025.