Significant changes to the LOG include the following:
Law 5: Only the Captain:
Stronger collaboration between the referee and the team captains can help instil higher levels of fairness and mutual respect. In this regard, so that the referee can explain key decisions, only the captains will be allowed to approach the referee in a respectful manner when invited to do so. The ‘only the captain’ protocol can be initiated at any stage, but it is most likely to be used following major decisions and to prevent major confrontations. The objectives of this law change are to:
- improve the image of the game
- improve cooperation between the captain and the referee
- increase respect between teams and the referee
The referee can initiate the ‘only the captain’ protocol by blowing the whistle and using the following signal: Raising both arms above their head and crossing them at the wrists then uncrossing them to perform a forward pushing motion with open palms to indicate that the players must not approach. This signal, after a whistle, activates a “captain’s-only zone” extending 4 meters around the referee, during which only the designated captain from each team may approach to discuss decisions. Other players who enter this zone or ignore the signal are cautioned for dissent.
Law 8: Dropped ball:
If, when play was stopped: the ball was inside the penalty area, the referee drops it for the defending team goalkeeper in their penalty area. If the ball was outside the penalty area, the referee drops it for one player of the team that has or “would have gained possession” if this can be determined by the referee; otherwise, it is dropped for one player of the team that last touched it. The ball is dropped at its position when play was stopped.
Law 12: Corner Kick (goalkeeper):
A corner kick is awarded to the opposing team if a goalkeeper, inside their penalty area, controls the ball with their hand(s)/arm(s) for more than eight seconds before releasing it. The referee will decide when the goalkeeper has control of the ball and the eight seconds begin, and will visually count down the last five seconds with a raised hand.
Captains Armband:
Consistent with the spirit of Law 3 each team is encouraged to have a captain on the field of play that is wearing an identifying armband. However, if he/she is not, they are still eligible to participate in the game. We have taken the position that not having a captain’s armband should not impact the player or the game.
For the fully updated IFAB Laws of the Game please visit: laws-of-the-game-2025-26
