WFA Walking Football Substitutes Law Explained

The WFA Substitutes Law explains how players may enter and leave the pitch during a walking football match. These rules help maintain fairness, keep matches flowing smoothly and ensure that substitutions are carried out safely and correctly.

This guide breaks down how substitutes are used under WFA laws.

Substitutes Must Be Easy to Identify

All substitutes must be clearly distinguishable from players currently on the pitch. This usually means wearing a bib or different coloured top until the referee allows them to enter the game.

This helps match officials clearly see who is playing and prevents confusion during substitutions.

Rolling Substitutions

Under WFA laws, substitutions are rolling. This means players may be substituted during any suitable stoppage in play rather than waiting for fixed intervals.

However, substitutions must follow these steps:

• The team must inform the referee

• The referee must approve the change

• The substitute may only enter once permission has been given

• The substituted player must leave the pitch safely

This ensures order and fairness.

Competition Rules Take Priority

In certain competitions — including the WFA National Cup, WFA-affiliated leagues and WFA tournaments — specific competition rules may apply.

If competition rules differ from standard WFA substitution laws, the competition rules always take priority. Players and managers should always check tournament or league regulations before a match.

Why This Law Is Important

Clear substitution rules:

• Prevent confusion

• Protect player safety

• Keep matches organised

• Support fair competition

They also allow teams to manage player fitness and wellbeing.

Part of the official WFA Walking Football Rules Hub:
👉 /walking-football-rules/