IFAB Updates Penalty Double-Touch Rule for 2025

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has updated penalty kick rules to clarify that accidental double touches—such as slipping and making contact with both feet—will result in a retake if a goal is scored, following controversy over Julián Álvarez’s disallowed penalty during Atletico Madrid's Champions League shootout loss to Real Madrid. If a penalty is missed after an accidental double touch, it will be recorded as missed in shootouts or lead to an indirect free kick during regular play. The rule now distinguishes between accidental and deliberate double touches, with only the latter still penalized as before. The change takes effect immediately for UEFA competitions and globally for events starting on or after July 1, 2025. Atletico Madrid fans remain frustrated by the decision's impact on their team's Champions League exit. Some Atletico supporters have initiated legal action over the handling of video evidence by UEFA.