The Football Association (The FA) and the Walking Football Association (WFA) have today announced a new unified set of Laws of the Game for Walking Football in England, marking a significant milestone in the continued development of the format.
The new Laws, which will be introduced from January 2027, follow the partnership announced between The FA and WFA and a comprehensive period of collaboration, consultation and practical assessment, designed to create a more consistent experience for everyone involved in Walking Football.
Unifying the Laws has been a central ambition of the partnership. A national survey conducted in early 2026 demonstrated overwhelming support for change, with 98% of respondents agreeing there was a need for a unified set of Laws, and 93% recognising that compromise would be required to achieve it.
Alongside the development of the unified Laws, The FA and WFA have established a new Referee Development Panel to support the ongoing development of Walking Football match officials in England. The Panel’s first key initiative will be a series of online webinars for referees, designed to build understanding, confidence and consistency in the application of the new Laws ahead of their introduction.
The unified Laws will provide a common framework for Walking Football across England, helping players, coaches, referees, competition organisers and clubs enjoy greater clarity and consistency, wherever they take part.
The introduction of the Laws represents an important next step in the partnership between The FA and WFA, with The FA acting as the governing body for Walking Football in England and the WFA as a National Delivery Partner. The two organisations will continue to work together through an annual review process to ensure the Laws of the Game remain relevant and fit for purpose.
Watch the full video to hear more about the development of the unified Laws and what they mean for Walking Football, and download the full Laws of the Game to explore the changes in detail here.
