THE IFAB BACKGROUND

Mission

WE ARE THE INDEPENDENT GUARDIANS OF THE LAWS OF THE GAME.

The mission of The IFAB is to serve the world of football as the independent guardian of the Laws of the Game. As the only body authorised to decide and agree changes to the Laws of the Game, we listen to the football community, with the goal to improve and develop the game for players, match officials and fans while protecting and strengthening the spirit and simplicity of football.

Transparency, accountability and inclusivity are the core values of The IFAB. We serve the entire global football community, voice its views and amend the Laws of the Game accordingly, in a democratic way. Our goal is to ensure the future health and stability of football while respecting the core values of the game.

Foundation

1863

The first ‘universal’ football Laws were drawn up in 1863 in England. 

1886

The International Football Association Board (The IFAB) was founded in 1886 by the four British football associations (The FA, Scottish FA, FA of Wales and Irish FA) as the worldwide body with sole responsibility for developing and preserving the Laws of the Game. 

Logo of The FA, FA Wales, Scottish FA and Irish football association
1913

FIFA joined in 1913, completing the current board of The IFAB and representing nowadays the 207 national associations that exist worldwide. 

Logo of The FA, FA Wales, Scottish FA and Irish football association
2014

In January 2014, The IFAB officially became registered as an independent association. This is a new beginning, with our own administration, headquarters and statutes that re-define our purpose, structure and responsibilities. 

2016

The 2016-2017 revision of the laws have been a true milestone for The IFAB and the amendments adopted in recent years symbolise a bold step into the future of football, counting with expert advisory panels and promoting fairness, integrity, universality, inclusion and the use of technology. 

The International football association. Logotypes of The IFAB, The FA, FA Wales, FIFA, Scottish FA and Irish football association