The new FIFA Club World Cup is officially underway, and we have to admit — it’s looking impressive.
The football is intense, the atmosphere is vibrant, and the competition features some of the biggest clubs from around the world. But while the quality on the pitch is top-tier, the tournament itself feels… different.
Let’s be honest: this doesn’t look like the football we’re used to in Europe. If you’ve been watching the games, you’ve likely noticed some unusual changes. But it actually goes much deeper than you think.
Here are 7 new introductions that are making the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup feel very, very strange — but also kind of cool.
1. Referees Are Wearing Body Cams
Yes, referees now wear body cameras, giving fans a point-of-view look at the game. These cams show moments like the pre-match coin toss and fouls during replays — all from the referee’s perspective. It’s immersive, like something out of a video game. While strange, it’s also an intriguing step toward greater transparency.
2. Mandatory Halftime Interviews
Just like in American sports, each team is now required to send a player and coach for a live halftime interview. Fans watching at home get real-time reactions and insight. It’s an odd concept for football fans, but it’s already becoming more common — with La Liga starting to implement similar features.
3. The New 8-Second Rule for Goalkeepers
Replacing the old 6-second rule (which was rarely enforced), goalkeepers are now allowed only 8 seconds to release the ball. If they hold on longer, the referee gives a visible 5-second countdown — and if the ball isn’t released in time, the opposing team is awarded a corner kick. Expect this rule to become a fixture in top European leagues next season.
4. A 10-Second Countdown Before Kickoff
Gone is the classic whistle-start. Now, games begin with a 10-second countdown led by the stadium announcer. While not a major change, it certainly adds to the spectacle — even if it feels a bit theatrical for longtime fans.
5. Individual Player Introductions
Another American-style twist: instead of teams walking out together led by their captains, players are now introduced one by one, with the captain coming out last. In the opening game between Al Ahly and Inter Miami, Lionel Messi walked out solo to cheers after his name was announced by the stadium announcer.
6. Fans See VAR Footage in Real Time
Previously, fans in the stadium had to wait without knowing what was being reviewed. Now, they can watch the same VAR footage the referee is seeing, in real time, on big screens. It’s a move that increases transparency and trust in refereeing decisions — and it’s already a hit with fans.
7. New Offside Technology Using Ball Chips
To improve accuracy and speed, a chip in the ball now helps determine offsides. If a player in an obvious offside position (10 cm or more) touches the ball, a signal alerts the linesman to raise the flag instantly. This saves time and reduces post-play VAR delays — unless it’s a marginal call, in which case play continues until the action ends.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is clearly more than just a tournament — it’s a testing ground for the future of football. While some of these changes might feel odd now, they could soon become the norm across Premier League, Bundesliga, Serie A, and beyond.
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