Serie A Introduces Strict New Rules to Increase Effective Playing Time

Serie A is set to introduce a series of new measures aimed at reducing unnecessary stoppages and increasing effective playing time from the 2026/27 season. The changes were discussed during a technical briefing involving the Italian refereeing body, league officials and representatives from all 20 clubs. The initiative is designed to make matches faster, more fluid and more engaging for supporters.

The meeting was led by AIA technical director Domenico Messina and chief referee appointments officer Daniele Orsato. Officials used the session to explain how the latest regulations will be interpreted and applied during matches. The focus was largely on situations that regularly interrupt play and contribute to a significant amount of inactive time during games.

One of the most notable changes concerns substitutions. Under the new protocol, which was adopted from the summer's World Cup, a substituted player must leave the field within 10 seconds after the substitution board is raised. Failure to do so will result in the replacement being delayed until the next stoppage. Throw-ins and goal kicks will also be subject to a five-second countdown, with the opposing team awarded a corner if the time limit is exceeded.

The regulations also introduce stricter measures for players receiving treatment. Any player who leaves the field for medical attention will have to remain outside for a full minute after play resumes. Meanwhile, VAR officials will have expanded authority to intervene in cases involving clear mistakes related to a second yellow card. These adjustments are intended to improve consistency while limiting unnecessary interruptions.

Serie A hopes the reforms will create a more dynamic style of football and give fans more actual action during matches. By targeting delays surrounding substitutions, restarts and medical treatment, the league aims to maximize playing time without changing the fundamental character of the game. The new rules will form an important part of Serie A's efforts to modernize the matchday experience from the beginning of the 2026/27 campaign.