UEFA Considers Rule Change After Controversial Penalty Decision

MADRID, Spain — The UEFA has announced it will discuss potential changes to the double-touch penalty rule following the controversial disallowance of a penalty taken by Argentina’s Julián Álvarez in a Champions League match against Real Madrid on March 12, 2025.

During a decisive penalty shootout, Álvarez’s shot was initially counted before referee intervention deemed the penalty invalid. Álvarez slipped upon taking the shot, inadvertently touching the ball a second time with his supporting foot, a violation under Rule 14.1 of the Laws of the Game.

“Under the current rules, the VAR had to inform the referee that the goal should be annulled,” UEFA stated, backing its decision with video evidence of the incident. Despite the ruling being consistent with existing regulations, the response from UEFA indicates that the enforcement of this rule could warrant review, particularly for unforeseen circumstances such as involuntary actions.

UEFA’s move to reevaluate the double-touch rule stems from a growing concern that the strict application of penalties may lead to unjust outcomes in critical moments of matches. UEFA confirmed that discussions would take place with FIFA and the International Football Association Board (IFAB) to explore the necessity of adjusting the regulations, especially to differentiate between intentional and unintentional touches.

The IFAB, an organization comprised of FIFA and the four British football associations, is historically responsible for updating the laws of the game. Its decision-making requires a three-quarters majority, meaning that FIFA’s approval and support from at least two British associations are necessary for any rule modifications.

The board’s composition reflects its commitment to preserving the heritage of football while adapting to the game’s evolution. Changes require extensive proposals submitted at least four weeks prior to the annual general meeting, where discussions occur and voting takes place.

FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura and IFAB representatives, including legendary referee Pierluigi Collina, engage in discussions about potential rule amendments at these meetings.

Diego Simeone, coach of Atlético de Madrid, expressed frustration over the call following the match, suggesting that the conditions surrounding the double-touch rule introduce unnecessary complexity. He asserted, “The ball didn’t move at all; I trust that the VAR correctly identified the contact.” On the other hand, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti remarked that he believed Álvarez indeed touched the ball twice, adding that the tension surrounding penalties often resembles a lottery.

The debate surrounding the double-touch rule highlights the balance between maintaining fair play and adapting regulations to reflect the realities of modern football. While UEFA has initiated conversations regarding potential changes, the consultation and formalization process with IFAB could delay any modifications until the 2026-27 season.

As discussions continue, one significant question remains: Should the penalty structure be amended to account for unintentional errors? The answer lies in the future deliberations of IFAB and UEFA.