UEFA sticks to extra time, rejecting calls for reform
UEFA does not intend to abandon extra time in its competitions, according to "The Times". Advocates for change argue that this would reduce the burden on players.
The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) does not plan to introduce changes to the rules regarding extra time in its competitions. According to "The Times", despite calls to lessen the players' burden, UEFA does not intend to abandon this element of matches.
In February, "The Guardian" reported that informal discussions within UEFA suggested abolishing extra time and immediately moving to penalties in the event of a draw after regular playing time. However, such a change could not come into effect before 2027, when the current television rights cycle ends.
UEFA believes teams should have the opportunity to decide the outcome of matches on the pitch for as long as possible. Penalties are considered a last resort, essentially akin to a lottery. Currently, extra time is the standard in most competitions worldwide, except for the UEFA Super Cup, where, from 2023, penalties immediately follow a draw.
Player fatigue
Players and coaches are increasingly expressing dissatisfaction with the congested match calendar. UEFA and FIFA have introduced changes that have increased the number of matches.
UEFA has extended the main phase of the Champions League and Europa League, and FIFA has altered the formats of the World Cup and the Club World Cup, also increasing the number of games that players must play.
