Premier League's nine new rules for upcoming 2026/27 season explained

Nine new rules are set to be implemented for the upcoming 2026/27 season of the Premier League. These regulations aim to increase on-field action and incorporate more technology. Some of these guidelines were tested during the FIFA World Cup, leading to a higher average ball-in-play time. While most of the new rules will be accepted, some may raise concerns as they may require more reliance on VAR, which remains controversial among fans.

The first regulation concerns throw-ins, where throws executed within five seconds will be given to the opposing team. However, this rule will not apply to long throws, which are considered set-piece routines. Goalkeepers also have a five-second limit for goal kicks, and if they fail to execute it within that time, a corner will be awarded to the attacking team.

Players who suddenly collapse on the field must leave the field immediately, even if they haven't been attended to by a physio, unless they were fouled and the offender received a card.

Substitution times have been reduced to 10 seconds, and players must leave the field promptly. If they take too long, the incoming replacement will have to wait a full minute before joining the game. Goalkeepers will get a ten-second window to choose a substitute to leave the field for a minute if they have been attended by a physio. If no decision is made within ten seconds, the captain will be substituted for 60 seconds. This rule will not apply if the goalkeeper was fouled or bleeding.

The rules regarding handball during goal kicks have been clarified. Any kick of the ball during a goal kick will now be treated as the kick being taken, and if any player touches the ball, a penalty will be automatically awarded. VAR will also be used to review second yellow cards, similar to the World Cup, but only for cards that have been shown.

Set-piece goals will also be reviewed by VAR to check if a foul occurred before the set-piece was taken. If an infringement is found, the goal will be disallowed, and the set-piece will be retaken. Lastly, VAR can now ensure the correct player is penalized for an infringement, but this rule will only apply if the offense is the same, potentially in situations involving a mix-up in a crowded penalty area.