Liga MX announces major rule changes ahead of Apertura 2025
From revised penalty kick rules to tighter goalkeeper restrictions, here’s a breakdown of what’s new for the 2025 Apertura.
Although the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and the 2025 Gold Cup are currently taking center stage in the U.S., Mexican club soccer is gearing up for its return with the 2025 Apertura tournament. As teams prepare to battle for the Liga MX title in December, the Mexican Soccer Federation (FMF) has announced a set of rule changes that will reshape how matches are officiated, catching fans across the league somewhat off guard.
Key rule changes in Liga MX
Only captains can talk to the referee: Under the new regulations, only a team’s designated captain will be allowed to approach the referee during matches to discuss calls. If the captain happens to be the goalkeeper, the team must appoint another outfield player to serve as the point of contact with the officials.
Goalkeeper time limit of 8 seconds: Goalkeepers will now have a maximum of eight seconds to release the ball from their hands after gaining possession. The referee will visibly raise an arm to count down the final five seconds, emphasizing the enforcement of this rule.
Violations result in corner kicks: If a goalkeeper holds the ball longer than the allotted eight seconds, the opposing team will be awarded a corner kick. In the past, a 6-second rule was loosely applied in some leagues, with an indirect free-kick to the rival team the punishment.
Penalty kicks and double contact: In cases where a player accidentally touches the ball with both feet while taking a penalty kick — a rare but possible misstep — the outcome will determine the ruling. If the ball goes in, the penalty must be retaken. If it doesn’t, the opposing team will be awarded an indirect free kick from the spot of the infraction.
These updates are part of the FMF’s ongoing efforts to improve game flow and discipline across Liga MX. With kickoff approaching, fans and players alike will be watching closely to see how these changes play out on the field.
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