Israeli Football Implements New Rules on Substitutions, Injuries, and VAR for 2026/27 Season

Ahead of the 2026/27 football season, new regulations will take effect in Israeli football, aligning with international updates. Key changes include a strict 10-second limit for substituted players to leave the field after the substitution signal; failure to comply delays the substitute's entry until the next stoppage and at least one minute later. Goalkeepers are exempt from this timing rule but must exit via the goal line.

Injury protocols now require players treated or examined on the field to remain off for one minute after play resumes, regardless of injury severity. Exceptions apply if the injury resulted from a foul warranting a yellow or red card, allowing the player to stay on the pitch post-treatment.

Referees gain discretion to apply advantage even if the opposing team gains possession during an improper restart, such as free kicks or throw-ins taken from incorrect spots or when the ball was not stationary. If play is stopped due to interference with officials or external factors, the referee's ball will be awarded to the team expected to retain possession. Deliberate delays in restarting play can lead to penalties, including transferring throw-ins or awarding corner kicks to the opposing team, with a visual five-second countdown for restarts involving throw-ins and goal kicks.

The VAR protocol expands to cover new scenarios: correcting mistaken second yellow cards leading to red cards, overturning wrongful corner kick cancellations, and reviewing fouls before a corner or free kick that result in goals or penalties. VAR reviews of canceled corner kicks are only allowed if they can be completed immediately without delaying the game.

Additional guidelines address unsporting conduct, such as intentional mouth covering during protests, which may result in yellow cards. Post-match disciplinary action can follow if offensive remarks are discovered. Leaving the field in protest does not automatically lead to suspension but will be handled per existing disciplinary rules.