Serie A clubs briefed on new regulations for 2026/27 season

The referees' body of Serie A and the twenty clubs convened on Tuesday to discuss the regulatory changes set to take effect for the 2026/27 season, with a focus on minimising dead time during matches.

As reported by ANSA, via CalcioMercato, the meeting was led by AIA technical director Domenico Messina and chief referee designator Daniele Orsato, along with representatives from all twenty top-flight clubs and officials from Lega Serie A.

“It’s essential that all the necessary technical information is provided before kick-off, especially regarding the regulatory changes introduced this season,” Messina stated.

“We will always be ready to provide any clarification on the application of the rules and their interpretation, for ever greater clarity and a productive mutual relationship.”

The upcoming changes, primarily based on protocols tested at this summer’s World Cup, aim to reduce stoppages in play: players being substituted will have only 10 seconds to exit the pitch once the board is displayed, or their replacement will be delayed until the next stoppage.

Additionally, throw-ins and goal kicks will be governed by a five-second countdown, with a corner awarded against any team that delays beyond this limit. Players receiving treatment will also be required to remain off the pitch for a full minute after play resumes.

VAR's authority has been expanded to address cases of mistaken identity and clearly erroneous second yellow cards.

Lega Serie A CEO Luigi De Siervo characterised the session as preparatory rather than a departure from the norm: “Many of the changes introduced will concern situations where play is stopped, with the aim of increasing the effective playing time of matches, making games even more dynamic and spectacular… The collaboration between Lega Calcio Serie A and the AIA on these issues is fundamental to guaranteeing the best application of the new rules.”

Source: Football Italia