New FIFA substitution regulation trialed during France versus Northern Ireland match

FIFA has begun implementing a new regulation aimed at reducing time-wasting during player substitutions, which is set for the 2026 World Cup. The protocol was recently trialed during a match between France and Northern Ireland. Under the new rule, a substituted player must exit the field within 10 seconds. If the player exceeds this time limit, the incoming substitute must wait until the next stoppage in play to enter the pitch. During the trial match, Michael Olise delayed his exit while greeting spectators. Consequently, Manu Kone was unable to enter the game immediately, leaving France temporarily with ten men. This initiative is designed to increase the total amount of active playing time in professional football.