Football / Protocols & guidance

Return substitutes

IFAB · 2026/27
Last checked: 12 October 2026
Source: IFAB Laws of the Game 2026/27 · Source pages: 36
In short

Previously substituted players may return only in approved categories of football.

On this pageScope

Scope

Return substitutions are permitted only for youth, veterans, disability and grassroots football with approval from the relevant national association, confederation or FIFA. A previously substituted player can replace another player later in the match. All other Law 3 requirements, including the substitution procedure, continue to apply.

Independent explanations and translations, not official federation publications. Competition options are labelled separately. Check which options your competition has adopted.
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