Gotham FC NWSL begins Challenge Cup with new rules.

What are the new rules?

The National Women’s Soccer League introduces a new off-field treatment rule and timed substitution rule. The off-field treatment rule requires players to leave the field for a one-minute treatment period if they remain on the ground and require medical personnel to enter the field after play is stopped.

Why it matters for Gotham FC NWSL

The new rules aim to reduce unnecessary stoppages and improve match flow. The timed substitution rule discourages time-wasting by allowing players 10 seconds to leave the field.

What comes next?

Gotham FC NWSL will face Kansas City Current in the Challenge Cup with these new rules in place. The league has also updated its game day heat safety policy and expanded its fan code of conduct to cover digital and social media spaces. | Rule | Description | | --- | --- | | Off-field treatment | Players must leave the field for a one-minute treatment period | | Timed substitution | Players have 10 seconds to leave the field during substitutions | The NWSL has simplified its heat safety procedures, pausing games for 150-180 seconds when the wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) falls between 82.3°F and 92.1°F.