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IFAB: The Guardians of Football Rules
This text explains the history and workings of the International Football Association Board (IFAB), the body responsible for creating and amending the rules of football.
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Germany
Germany SportsFootballSoccerRegulationsRulesIfab
International Football Association Board (Ifab)Football Association (Fa)FifaGerman Football Association (Dfb)
Oliver BierhoffClaudia MüllerNia KünzerPierluigi Collina
- How does the IFAB work?
- The IFAB's process involves national associations proposing rule changes by October 1st, which are reviewed by technical experts, including former referees and players. These proposals are discussed in a general assembly in February or March, with new rules usually taking effect on July 1st.
- How is the IFAB composed today?
- The IFAB currently has eight voting members: four representatives from the four British football associations (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland) who vote independently, and four representatives from FIFA who vote as a bloc. A two-thirds majority is required for rule changes.
- When and why was the IFAB founded?
- The International Football Association Board (IFAB) was founded on June 2, 1886, by the four British football associations to create a unified set of international rules, as variations previously existed.
- Has the IFAB ever reversed rule changes?
- Yes, the IFAB has reversed previous decisions. A notable example is the "Golden Goal" rule, introduced in 1993 and abolished in 2004 after controversy.
- Since when have there been binding football rules?
- In 1863, the Football Association (FA) in England established the first set of binding football rules, known as the "Laws of the Game". These rules standardized aspects like field dimensions, goal size, and fouls.