FutureFit: The Confirmed Details on 3v3 Football Are Here

Earlier this year, the FA announced the ambitious 'FutureFit' framework to evolve grassroots football. The idea was simple: to give the youngest players the best possible introduction to the game. Now, the specifics details have been released including the much talked about introduction of the new 3v3 format, giving coaches, parents, and clubs a clearer picture of what the game will look like from the 2026/27 season.

This is more than just a vague concept; these are the practical details that will change how the game is played and coached. Here’s a breakdown of what’s now confirmed.

For the Coaches: The Format is Set

For coaches, the most important update is the clarity on how the 3v3 games are played. You can now plan with confidence knowing the specifics of the format:

• No Goalkeepers, No Officials: The game is designed to be free-flowing, with a single adult facilitator to guide, not officiate. This gives players the freedom to make their own decisions on the pitch.
• Pitch and Team Structure: The confirmed setup is highly flexible. It is expected that you can fit up to four 3v3 pitches on a single 5v5 pitch, and the recommended game length is between 6-10 minutes per match. This allows for multiple fixtures and a carousel approach to rotate players.
• Simplified Rules: Confirmed rules include no heading or penalty kicks, and free kicks must be at least 3m from the goal. This keeps the game safe and focused on fundamental skills.

For the Parents: Every Child Plays is a Guarantee

If you've been wondering how this change will affect your child's playing time, the new details offer reassurance:

• No Substitutes: The most exciting confirmed detail for parents is that there are no substitutes in the 3v3 format. This guarantees that every child on the team will be on the pitch, playing at all times.
• Increased Playing Time: The carousel approach, with short, back-to-back matches, is confirmed to provide each player with the recommended 30-40 minutes of playing time. This also ensures they get to play with and against different teammates throughout the session.
• Focus on Fun: It's officially a non-competitive game for U7s. With no league tables or results, the focus remains on fun, skill development, and good sportsmanship, starting with a high-five at kick-off.

For the Club Administrators: Logistics Are Flexible

The new details confirm that the 3v3 format is logistically simple and designed to fit into your existing club operations with minimal disruption:

• Adaptable Pitch Setup: Your club can easily adapt existing 5v5 pitches for multiple 3v3 games. Pitches can also be set up with cones or markers in any open space, providing a confirmed level of flexibility.
• Handling Player Numbers: The guidelines confirm that teams can be flexible. If you have fewer players on the day, you can run games like 2v2 or 3v2, ensuring that every child who turns up gets to play.
• The Equipment: The ball size for 3v3 is size 3, and the recommended goal size is 120x75cm (4x2.5ft).
• Mandatory from 2026/27: This is not a trial; it's a confirmed mandatory change. The FA is providing the 2025/26 season as a transition period, with more resources and information to be released to help your club prepare.

What Are Your Thoughts?

With these details now confirmed, there's a lot for the grassroots community to consider. We'd like to hear from you.

• Coaches: How do you believe the absence of goalkeepers and the non-competitive format will impact your approach, and also the kids' skill development?
• Parents: How do you feel about the emphasis on continuous play over a traditional subbing system?
• Administrators: What are the biggest logistical challenges you foresee for your club in implementing this change?

.