The 2026 FIFA World Cup has ceased to be merely a platform for testing the expanded 48-team format; it has also become a practical laboratory for trialling new amendments to the laws of the game. FIFA has adopted a set of regulatory measures that will find their way into the Bundesliga from 1 July, while other amendments remain under evaluation pending a final decision.
The most notable changes target time-wasting. Referees will apply a new mechanism requiring goalkeepers and players to restart play promptly. The referee will visibly count down the final 5 seconds if a goalkeeper delays releasing the ball or if players are slow to take throw-ins or goal kicks, with the ball transferring to the opposing team should the delay continue.
The new regulations will also impose greater discipline on substitutions: any team that is slow to complete a change will be penalised by playing a full minute with a reduced number of players, a measure designed to cut unnecessary stoppages.
Among the other key developments, any player who receives treatment on the pitch will be required to leave the field immediately upon completion of medical attention and will not be permitted to return until one minute has elapsed. Exceptions apply in cases of head injuries, heavy collisions, or injuries resulting from fouls that warrant a yellow card — all in an effort to limit attempts to disrupt the flow of matches.
The Video Assistant Referee system will also see a new expansion, as it will now be able to review second-bookable offences leading to a sending-off. This amendment has become mandatory and will be applied in both the first and second divisions of the Bundesliga.
Several other ideas remain under evaluation following their trial at the World Cup, including granting referees the authority to punish players who cover their mouths while speaking during matches, in a bid to curb discriminatory behaviour, as well as the use of video technology to review decisions relating to corner kicks.
Game officials are also studying the application of a collective dismissal penalty in the event that all players of one team leave the pitch in protest at a refereeing decision — a measure aimed at reinforcing the authority of referees and preventing mass protests.
By contrast, mandatory water breaks used during World Cup matches do not appear likely to feature in Bundesliga competition, as officials from the German football league and UEFA prefer to continue handling climatic conditions flexibly, according to the temperature and weather conditions of each match.