CONMEBOL is taking a bold step to revolutionize its tournaments by implementing new rules to combat time-wasting in the Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana. Get ready for faster-paced and fairer matches!
South American soccer is about to witness a significant transformation in its game dynamics. CONMEBOL has announced the adoption of new rules, approved by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), with a clear objective: to curb the constant practice of time-wasting and ensure more active playing time. The measures promise to inject more passion and intensity into Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana clashes starting from the knockout stages.
This package of changes arrives at a crucial moment, aiming to elevate the quality of the spectacle and the fairness of the matches. The impact will be felt immediately in the next phases of the continent’s most prestigious competitions, where every second and every decision can change a team’s fate and the fans’ excitement.
The Beginning of the South American Revolution
The new rules go into effect immediately, starting with the highly anticipated round of 16 in the Libertadores and the playoffs of the Copa Sudamericana. This early implementation demonstrates CONMEBOL‘s urgency to adapt to global soccer trends and provide a more competitive environment.
This decision reflects a commitment to modernization, ensuring that South American tournaments align with international best practices for the development of the sport, promising an era of greater integrity and intensity.
The Controversy Surrounding the ‘Vini Jr. Rule’
However, not all innovations have been embraced. One of the most recent discussions by the IFAB, the so-called ‘Vini Jr. Rule’—which proposed the expulsion of players who cover their mouths to speak to opponents—was sidelined by the South American governing body. The rule, which is optional, was intended to curb acts of racism or veiled insults.
The ‘Vini Jr. Rule’ emerged following on-field incidents, such as the one involving the Brazilian forward Vini Jr. in a 2025/26 Champions League match, where he accused Benfica player Prestianni of making racist remarks. CONMEBOL opted not to apply the measure in its competitions.
Speeding Up the Game: Throw-ins and Substitutions
To combat time-wasting, CONMEBOL has toughened the rules for putting the ball back into play. For throw-ins and goal kicks, the referee will start a five-second countdown. If the time expires without the ball being put back in play, possession will be turned over to the opposing team to encourage speed.
Agility will also be required for substitutions. The substituted player will have a maximum of ten seconds to leave the pitch. If the time is exceeded, the player coming on must wait one minute before being allowed to step onto the field, leaving the team temporarily with one player fewer.
More Active Play: Injuries and Medical Attention
Pauses for injuries and medical attention have also been revised to optimize match time. Now, a player who requires medical attention and must leave the pitch must remain off the field for at least one minute after their recovery.
This measure aims to prevent play-acting and ensure that interruptions are genuinely necessary, contributing to a smoother match with fewer unnecessary stoppages.
Expanded VAR Scope
VAR will have an even broader role in CONMEBOL competitions, capable of intervening in situations that were previously outside its jurisdiction. New corrections include: identifying a yellow card given to the wrong player; the incorrect application of a second yellow card resulting in an unjust expulsion; and clear errors regarding corner kick decisions.
This expansion of VAR‘s responsibilities seeks to improve the accuracy of refereeing decisions, minimizing errors that could compromise the result and the integrity of the match.
The new rules from CONMEBOL mark a milestone in the pursuit of a fairer, more dynamic, and exciting game. From the round of 16 of the Libertadores and the Sudamericana playoffs onwards, fans can expect matches with fewer interruptions and better flow, where strategy and passion prevail. The expectation is that these changes will not only enhance the spectacle but also ensure that South American soccer shines even brighter on the world stage.
