The 2026 World Cup introduced several laws to accelerate matches, and the Premier League will adopt key changes for the 2026-27 season. Andy Davies analyzes which rules carry over.

Time limits see the biggest shifts. Injured players must now leave the pitch for one minute (doubled from 30 seconds), a mandatory IFAB law change despite a 70% decline in on-field treatments last season. Five-second countdowns for throw-ins and goal kicks begin only when referees deem players are delaying, while 10-second substitution exits aim to end managed walk-offs — though refs may allow slight leeway.

VAR expands to review second yellow cards for factual errors (e.g., no trip occurred) and mistaken identity within the same infringement. However, the league rejects VAR intervention for incorrect corner awards, send-offs for mouth-covering, and mandatory hydration breaks.