FIFA has approved a series of new rule changes for the upcoming World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The regulations include faster restart time limits, stricter disciplinary measures, mandatory hydration and medical breaks, and expanded VAR powers to correct major refereeing errors.
The World Cup is expected to introduce the new measures as part of efforts to modernise officiating, improve player welfare, and reduce delays during matches.
Representing Educators for Humanity, former player and coach in the SA Federation Professional League, and Secretary for Western Province and National SA Federation Soccer Legends, Haroon Mahomed said the tournament will be the first World Cup to fully implement the new officiating protocols approved by the International Football Association Board.
“The aim, as we understand it, is to reduce time wasting, improve match tempo, strengthen discipline, and improve fairness and player welfare,” Mahomed said.
He added that while the changes may improve the flow of the game, there are both advantages and disadvantages to stricter regulation in football.
“Somebody put it quite nicely, they’re attempting to manage spontaneity,” he said.
Mahomed also argued that the broader context surrounding the tournament should not be ignored, particularly concerns about commercialisation and international politics.
“These rules can’t be understood without the reality of the increasing commercialization of the game, which restricts mass participation and access to the full benefits of the game,” he added.
Listen to the full interview below:
VOC News
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