Abstract: In the particular embodiments of the invention disclosed in the Specification, a variable valve control mechanism for internal combustion engines has a movable element interposed between the inlet valve cam and the inlet valve cam follower which is positioned in such a way as to delay closing of the inlet valve. In one form, a roller is interposed between the cam and the follower. In another form, a rocker arm has two pads, one of which is interposed between the cam and its follower, and the other of which is positioned to displace the rocker arm laterally in accordance with the position of a control arm upon which the rocker arm shaft is movably mounted.