The Italian Referees’ Association has announced updates to the rules interpretation for the 2026-27 Serie A season. Key changes include expanded VAR authority, measures to combat time-wasting, and updates to the DOGSO (Denial of a Goal-Scoring Opportunity) cards.
At the beginning of each season, coaches and select players are brought together to review the official guidelines given to referees and VAR officials, ensuring that everyone is on the same page regarding rule enforcement.
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As part of changes set forth by the IFAB for the 2026 World Cup, the AIA has incorporated some of these recommendations.
New VAR Protocol for Serie A
During the Serie A match between Atalanta and AS Roma on May 12, 2025, referee Simone Sozza checks the pitch-side VAR monitor at Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Revisions include granting VAR the capability to amend potentially game-changing decisions, such as an erroneous second yellow card via the mistaken identity rule. VAR can also revisit certain corner kick decisions, provided that doing so does not delay the game’s progression.
In Milan on October 19, 2024, referee Daniele Chiffi canceled a goal scored by Udinese Calcio after reviewing VAR during a match against AC Milan at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
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To address the issue of insufficient playing time in Serie A, new regulations aim to hasten the substitution process. Players must leave the field within 10 seconds of their number being displayed by the fourth official; otherwise, their substitute will only be allowed on the field after the play stops or at least after a full minute of resumed play.
Additionally, players have a five-second limit for taking throw-ins or goal kicks, and exceeding this deadline could result in the referee awarding the throw-in or corner to the opposing team.
In Lisbon on February 18, 2025, a fan of SL Benfica offered €50 to match referee Glenn Nyberg while he checked the VAR screen during the UEFA Champions League knockout round against AS Monaco at Estádio da Luz. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)
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Serie A will also implement the injury protocol observed during the World Cup, mandating that players requiring treatment on the field must wait at least one minute before returning. Exceptions apply for severe head injuries, fouls leading to yellow or red cards, or if the injured party is the goalkeeper.
The league will adopt a new rule allowing referees to issue a straight red card if a player covers their mouth during a provocative or offensive exchange with an opponent.
Modifications have also been made to DOGSO protocols: should a referee apply the advantage rule and the affected team subsequently scores, no card will be issued for the foul in question.
Lastly, a change related to penalties has been introduced; players who slip and unintentionally kick the ball with two feet during a penalty will now be allowed to retake the penalty if they score.