New rules for the 2026/27 Premier League season

A new campaign brings with it a fresh set of challenges for the players, managers and match officials alike – and this one is no different. Here is everything you need to know about the changes to the Laws of the Game and key refereeing principles for 2026/27.

Changes to the Laws of the Game

A number of mandatory changes to the Laws of the Game will be implemented in the Premier League this season.

Injured players must leave the pitch for one minute

When play is stopped because of an injury, a player who receives treatment on the pitch will now be required to leave the field for at least one minute after play restarts.

That represents an increase from the 30-second period previously used in the division.

Five-second countdown for delayed throw-ins and goal-kicks

Officials will have a new measure available to tackle clearly delayed throw-ins and goal-kicks.

A "five-second" countdown can be introduced when a referee believes a team is deliberately delaying the restart. If the countdown expires before the ball is put back into play, possession will be reversed.

• For a throw-in, the opposition will be awarded the restart from the same position.
• For a goal-kick, the opposing team will instead be awarded a corner.

The measure is aimed at reducing time-wasting and keeping the ball in play for longer.

Ten-second limit for substitutions

A "10-second" time limit for players leaving the field of play when substituted. If the time limit is exceeded, the substitute cannot enter until the first stoppage after one minute has elapsed.

VAR intervention for incorrect second yellow cards

VAR will have an expanded role when a player is shown a second yellow card that results in a red card.

However, the change is specifically designed to correct a clearly wrong second yellow card and not where a player could potentially have been shown a second yellow card. The second caution must have actually been awarded, with VAR able to intervene where there is clear evidence that the decision was incorrect.

New trial for goalkeeper tactical timeouts

A new trial will also take place during the 2026/27 season to address situations involving goalkeeper injuries.

If play is stopped because a goalkeeper requires treatment, the head coach will have to nominate an outfield player to leave the pitch immediately. That player must then remain off the field for at least one minute after play restarts.

The trial is designed to address occasions where goalkeeper injuries may be used to disrupt momentum, slow the game down or create opportunities for tactical instruction. There will be exceptions where the goalkeeper has been fouled or has collided with an opponent who also requires treatment.

The trial will be monitored throughout the season as part of an assessment of its impact on the flow of matches.

Refereeing Points of Emphasis

As well as the changes to the Laws of the Game, the Premier League Football Principles for the 2026/27 season have set out six key areas of focus for referees and VARs:

• Maintain a high threshold for penalising challenges – not every contact is a foul, while continuing to protect player safety.
• Maintain a high threshold for VAR intervention – the ‘Referee’s Call’ will stand unless, in the opinion of the VAR and based on the evidence readily available, the decision is a clear and obvious error.
  More efficient application of VAR, including improved use of semi-automated offside technology, to reduce delays.
• Continue to focus on the in-stadium VAR experience.
• Continue a robust approach to improving participant behaviour on the pitch and in the technical area.
• Maintain stronger measures to reduce time-wasting and disruption tactics.