Football lawmakers schedule talks to crack down on throw-in time-wasting

Time-wasting has become an increasingly serious problem in football, particularly this season. Teams are finding new ways to maximise dead-ball situations, from delaying free-kicks and corners to holding onto the ball for as long as possible whenever play stops.

This campaign, throw-ins have emerged as a new tool for time-wasting. By relying on long throw-ins, teams can create direct chances near the opponent’s penalty area rather than keeping the ball wide, where options are more limited. However, preparing for these throw-ins often takes a significant amount of time, reducing the effective playing time of matches.

According to data from this Premier League season, the average time the ball has been in play has dropped to 55 minutes and 28 seconds, down from 57 minutes previously.

In response, IFAB are now looking for solutions. Talks are expected to take place next week, with a primary focus on reducing time-wasting across the game. Sources told The Times that proposals could include extending existing rules on goalkeepers holding the ball to also cover throw-ins and goal-kicks.

Currently, goalkeepers are allowed to hold the ball for up to eight seconds. If they fail to release it within that time, the opposition are awarded a corner. A similar rule could be introduced for throw-ins, with teams given only five to six seconds to restart play or risk losing possession.

Beyond throw-ins, IFAB are also expected to discuss other aspects of time-wasting, including so-called “fake injuries”. Additional topics on the agenda may include Arsène Wenger’s proposed offside law changes and whether VAR should be used to determine which team last touched the ball before it goes out of play.

Many of these changes were initially expected to be introduced in time for the 2026 World Cup, but they may now be delayed until at least the end of the current season, pending further discussions.

The Premier League returns on Friday, 17 January, with the Manchester derby between Manchester United and Manchester City kicking off at 7:30 PM (GMT+7).