Premier League Adds Stricter Timewasting Rules

Premier League, PGMOL, VAR
13 June 2026

The Premier League has announced new rules and officiating guidance for the 2026-27 season, targeting timewasting, treatment delays and restart management. Injured players needing on-field treatment must now stay off for at least one minute.

The changes introduce tighter countdowns for substitutions, goal-kicks and throw-ins, while officials will also focus more on holding, simulation and penalty-area contact. VAR guidance has been refined to avoid unnecessary reviews while correcting clear errors.