New uefa rules

UEFA (Union of European Football Associations) has introduced several new rules and changes to the existing ones for the 2022-23 season. Here are some of the key changes:

  1. Video Assistant Referees (VARs): UEFA has expanded the use of VARs to include offside decisions, and also introduced a new "delayed VAR" system, which allows referees to review decisions during stoppages in play.
  2. Handball: UEFA has clarified the handball rules, stating that any deliberate handball that prevents a goal or creates a scoring opportunity will be punished with a free kick or penalty kick.
  3. Substitutions: Each team is now allowed to make up to five substitutions per match, with the option to make additional substitutions in extra time.
  4. Injury Time: The amount of injury time added to the end of each half will now be displayed on the stadium's electronic boards, to help fans understand the timing of the game.
  5. Goalkeeper Distribution: Goalkeepers are now allowed to distribute the ball with their hands, as long as they do not hold onto the ball for more than six seconds.
  6. Free Kicks: The distance between the ball and the wall during free kicks has been increased from 9.15 meters to 10.5 meters.
  7. Penalty Kicks: The ball must now be stationary for at least three seconds before a penalty kick is taken.
  8. Yellow and Red Cards: Yellow cards will now be shown to players who commit deliberate handball, and red cards will be shown to players who commit serious foul play or violent conduct.
  9. Fouls: The definition of a foul has been clarified, with emphasis on the need for referees to consider the intent and severity of the foul when making decisions.
  10. Match Ball: UEFA has introduced a new match ball, the Adidas Al Rihla, which features a unique design and improved aerodynamics.
  11. Player Equipment: Players are now required to wear approved goalkeeper gloves, and the use of third-party equipment (such as GPS trackers) is prohibited.
  12. Referee Communication: Referees will now be able to communicate with each other and with the VAR team using a new system, to improve the accuracy and consistency of decisions.

These changes aim to improve the flow and fairness of the game, while also enhancing the fan experience.