All new Premier League rules ahead of 2025/2026 season as 13 changes made at the start of the campaign

The Premier League has kicked off the 2025/2026 season with a series of significant rule changes and innovations, signaling a push for a more modern, transparent, and fair game. While some of the changes have been trialed in other competitions, their full implementation in England’s top flight is set to have a major impact on how the game is played and officiated. Here is a breakdown of the key adjustments for the new campaign.

Goalkeeper Time-Wasting Crackdown

One of the most talked-about changes is the new “eight-second rule” for goalkeepers. Previously, a six-second limit was in place, though it was rarely enforced. Now, if a goalkeeper holds the ball for more than eight seconds, the opposing team will be awarded a corner kick. Referees are instructed to give a visible five-second countdown to warn the player. This measure is designed to combat time-wasting and keep the game moving.

“Captains Only” Rule

Following a model seen in UEFA competitions, only the team captain will now be permitted to approach the referee to discuss decisions. Any other player who does so and behaves in a disrespectful manner risks a yellow card. If the captain is the goalkeeper, a nominated outfield player can be designated to communicate with the official. This rule is a direct response to a desire to reduce confrontations and improve the relationship between players and referees.

Semi-Automated Offside Technology

After a partial introduction last season, the 2025/2026 campaign marks the first full season with semi-automated offside technology. This system, which uses limb-tracking cameras and artificial intelligence, aims to significantly reduce the long VAR delays that have often frustrated fans and players. The technology is expected to provide faster and more accurate offside decisions.

VAR Announcements in Stadium

In a move to enhance transparency for fans, VAR decisions will now be announced over the stadium loudspeakers. This will provide supporters with a clearer understanding of why a decision was made and what the referee has found during the review process.

Penalty Retakes and Double-Touches

In response to recent high-profile incidents, a player who accidentally touches the ball twice during a penalty will now be allowed to retake the kick, but only if the shot goes in. If a player deliberately double-touches the ball, an indirect free-kick will be awarded to the defending team.

New Rules for Off-Field Interference

A new directive has been issued for situations where a substitute, coach, or player who is temporarily off the field touches the ball before it goes out of play. If there is no unfair intent, an indirect free-kick will be awarded. However, any deliberate and impactful interference will result in a direct free-kick or penalty, along with a red card.

Drop Ball Restarts

The process for a dropped ball has also been simplified. If play is stopped with the ball inside the penalty area, a dropped ball will be given to the goalkeeper to restart the game. If the ball is outside the penalty area, the drop ball will be given to the team that the referee believes would have gained possession.

Stricter Approach to Set-Piece Holding

Following feedback from clubs, referees will be more vigilant in penalizing players who are grappling and holding opponents during set-piece situations, with a focus on instances where a player’s movement is restricted. This is an effort to ensure fairness and reduce the often-chaotic nature of corners and free-kicks.

Fantasy Premier League Changes

For fans of the popular Fantasy Premier League game, there are also a number of important changes. Outfield players will now be rewarded for their defensive contributions with additional points. The game will also feature two sets of chips (Wildcard, Free Hit, Triple Captain, and Bench Boost), one for each half of the season.

These changes represent a concerted effort by the Premier League to evolve the game, address lingering issues, and improve the overall experience for players, officials, and fans alike. How managers and players adapt to these new regulations will undoubtedly be a key factor in the upcoming season.