spielregeln_08_cover.indd

Fédération Internationale de Football Association

President:

Joseph S. Blatter (Switzerland)

Secretary General:

Jérôme Valcke (France)

Address:

FIFA

FIFA-Strasse 20
P.O. Box
8044 Zurich
Switzerland

Telephone:

+41 (0)43 222 7777

Telefax:

+41 (0)43 222 7878

Internet:

www.FIFA.com

President:

Joseph S. Blatter (Switzerland)

Secretary General:

Jérôme Valcke (France)

Address: FIFA-Strasse

P.O.

Box

8044

Zurich

Switzerland

Telephone: +41 (0)43 222 7777

Telefax:

+41 (0)43 222 7878

Internet:

www.FIFA.com

FÉDÉRATION INTERNATIONALE DE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION

INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION BOARD (IFAB)

Members:

The Football Association

The Scottish Football Association

The Football Association of Wales

Irish Football Association

(1 vote each)

Fédération

Internationale

de Football Association (FIFA)

votes)

Next meeting of the International Football Association Board:
Northern Ireland, 27 February – 1 March 2009

In the twelve years since its last major revision of the Laws of the Game,
the International Football Association Board has made a signifi cant
number of additions and amendments to the Laws themselves, and
various accompanying publications and teaching materials have been
produced and distributed by football‘s governing bodies in order to
assist match offi cials in their duties and to clarify concepts for the
football community as a whole.

While this year’s edition of the Laws of the Game features only
one amendment to the 2007/2008 edition in terms of substance,
the overall wording and structure has been reviewed and revised to
consolidate and reorganise the content for the sake of consistency,
simplifi cation and clarifi cation. Among the most notable changes
in this respect, some of the Decisions of the International Football
Association Board from last year’s edition of the Laws of the Game
are now either incorporated in the Law to which they were previously
appended or appear in the section now entitled “Interpretation of
the Laws of the Game and Guidelines for Referees”. With this new
title, the International Football Association Board wishes to underline
that, while the content of this section is intended to complement the
Laws of the Game themselves, its application is indeed a compulsory
requirement.

In addition, certain principles that were previously implicitly understood
throughout the game but did not explicitly feature in the Laws of the
Game have been included in this new edition for completeness.

Finally, the International Football Association Board reminds the
associations and confederations that it is their duty, under the FIFA
Statutes, to ensure the Laws of the Game are implemented strictly
and consistently at all levels of competition.

PREFACE

NOTES ON THE LAWS OF THE GAME

Modifi cations

Subject to the agreement of the member association concerned and
provided the principles of these Laws are maintained, the Laws may
be modifi ed in their application for matches for players of under 16
years of age, for women footballers, for veteran footballers (over 35
years of age) and for players with disabilities.

Any or all of the following modifi cations are permissible:
•  size of the fi eld of play
•  size, weight and material of the ball
•  width between the goalposts and height of the crossbar from the

ground

• duration of the periods of play
• substitutions

Further

modifi cations are only allowed with the consent of the

International Football Association Board.

Male and Female

References to the male gender in the Laws of the Game in respect of
referees, assistant referees, players and offi cials are for simplifi cation
and apply to both males and females.

Key

A single line in the left-hand margin indicates new Law changes.

CONTENTS

Law

Page

THE FIELD OF PLAY

2 THE

BALL

THE NUMBER OF PLAYERS

THE PLAYERS’ EQUIPMENT

5 THE

REFEREE

THE ASSISTANT REFEREES

THE DURATION OF THE MATCH

THE START AND RESTART OF PLAY

THE BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY

THE METHOD OF SCORING

11 OFFSIDE

FOULS AND MISCONDUCT

13 FREE

KICKS

THE PENALTY KICK

15 THE

THROW-IN

THE GOAL KICK

THE CORNER KICK

PROCEDURES TO DETERMINE THE WINNER OF A MATCH

HOME-AND-AWAY

THE TECHNICAL AREA

THE FOURTH OFFICIAL AND THE RESERVE ASSISTANT REFEREE

INTERPRETATION OF THE LAWS

OF THE GAME AND GUIDELINES FOR REFEREES

RULES OF THE INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION BOARD 129

LAW 1 – THE FIELD OF PLAY

Field Surface

Matches may be played on natural or artifi cial surfaces, according to
the rules of the competition.

The colour of artifi cial surfaces must be green.

Where

artifi cial surfaces are used in either competition matches

between representative teams of member associations affi liated to
FIFA or international club competition matches, the surface must meet
the requirements of the FIFA Quality Concept for Artifi cial Turf or
the International Artifi cial Turf Standard, unless special dispensation
is given by FIFA.

Field Markings

The

fi eld of play must be rectangular and marked with lines. These

lines belong to the areas of which they are boundaries.

The two longer boundary lines are called touch lines. The two shorter
lines are called goal lines.

The

fi eld of play is divided into two halves by a halfway line, which

joins the midpoints of the two touch lines.

The centre mark is indicated at the midpoint of the halfway line.
A circle with a radius of 9.15 m (10 yds) is marked around it.

Marks may be made off the fi eld of play, 9.15 m (10 yds) from the
corner arc and at right angles to the goal lines and the touch lines, to
ensure that defending players retreat this distance when a corner kick
is being taken.

Dimensions

The length of the touch line must be greater than the length of the
goal line.

Length (touch line):

minimum

90 m

(100 yds)

maximum

120 m

(130 yds)

Width (goal line):

minimum

45 m

(50 yds)

maximum

90 m

(100 yds)

All lines must be of the same width, which must be not more than
12 cm (5 ins).

International Matches

Length:

minimum

100 m

(110 yds)

maximum

110 m

(120 yds)

Width:

minimum

64 m

(70 yds)

maximum

75 m

(80 yds)

The Goal Area

Two lines are drawn at right angles to the goal line, 5.5 m (6 yds) from
the inside of each goalpost. These lines extend into the fi eld of play
for a distance of 5.5 m (6 yds) and are joined by a line drawn parallel
with the goal line. The area bounded by these lines and the goal line
is the goal area.

LAW 1 – THE FIELD OF PLAY

The Penalty Area

Two lines are drawn at right angles to the goal line, 16.5 m (18 yds)
from the inside of each goalpost. These lines extend into the fi eld of
play for a distance of 16.5 m (18 yds) and are joined by a line drawn
parallel with the goal line. The area bounded by these lines and the
goal line is the penalty area.

Within each penalty area, a penalty mark is made 11 m (12 yds) from
the midpoint between the goalposts and equidistant to them.

An arc of a circle with a radius of 9.15 m (10 yds) from the centre of
each penalty mark is drawn outside the penalty area.

Flagposts

fl agpost, not less than 1.5 m (5 ft) high, with a non-pointed top and

a fl ag must be placed at each corner.

Flagposts may also be placed at each end of the halfway line, not less
than 1 m (1 yd) outside the touch line.

The Corner Arc

A quarter circle with a radius of 1 m (1 yd) from each corner fl agpost
is drawn inside the fi eld of play.

Goals

A goal must be placed on the centre of each goal line.

A goal consists of two upright posts equidistant from the corner
fl agposts and joined at the top by a horizontal crossbar. The goal-
posts and crossbar must be made of wood, metal or other approved
material. They may be square, rectangular, round or elliptical in shape
and must not be dangerous to players.

The distance between the posts is 7.32 m (8 yds) and the distance
from the lower edge of the crossbar to the ground is 2.44 m (8 ft).

Both goalposts and the crossbar have the same width and depth,
which do not exceed 12 cm (5 ins). The goal lines must be of the same
width as the goalposts and the crossbar. Nets may be attached to the
goals and the ground behind the goal, provided that they are properly
supported and do not interfere with the goalkeeper.

The goalposts and crossbars must be white.

Safety

Goals must be anchored securely to the ground. Portable goals may
only be used if they satisfy this requirement.

7.32 m (8 yds)

2.44 m
(8 ft)

LAW 1 – THE FIELD OF PLAY

The Field of Play

Corner Flagpost

PENALTY AREA

GOAL LINE

CORNER ARC

OPTIONAL
MARK

TOUCH LINE

CENTRE MARK

CENTRE CIRCLE

HALFWAY LINE

PENALTY ARC

FLAGPOST
(optional)

TOUCH LINE

GOAL LINE

GOAL AREA

PENALTY MARK

CORNER FLAGPOST

(compulsory)

OPTIONAL MARK

Flag to be not less than

1.5 m/5 ft high with a

non-pointed top

Lines to be not more
than 12 cm/5 ins
wide

Corner flagpost is compulsory

Corner arc

Metric Measurements

Imperial Measurements

16.5m

1m radius

Length: Maximum 120m

Minimum 90m

Width:
Maximum 90m

Minimum 45m

7.32m

9.15m

11m

5.5m

16.5m

Radius:
9.15m

5.5m

9.15m

18 yds

1 yd radius

Length: Maximum 130 yds

Minimum 100 yds

Width:
Maximum 100 yds

Minimum 50 yds

8 yds

10 yds

12 yds

6 yds

18 yds

Radius:
10 yds

6 yds

10 yds

Qualities and Measurements

The ball is:
• spherical
• made of leather or other suitable material
• of a circumference of not more than 70 cm (28 ins) and not less

than 68 cm (27 ins)

• not more than 450 g (16 oz) and not less than 410 g

(14 oz) in weight at the start of the match

• of a pressure equal to 0.6 – 1.1 atmosphere (600 – 1,100 g/cm

)

at sea level (8.5 lbs/sq in – 15.6 lbs/sq in)

Replacement of a Defective Ball

If the ball bursts or becomes defective during the course of a match:
• the match is stopped
• the match is restarted by dropping the replacement ball at the

place where the original ball became defective, unless play was
stopped inside the goal area, in which case the referee drops the
replacement ball on the goal area line parallel to the goal line at
the point nearest to where the original ball was located when play
was stopped

If the ball bursts or becomes defective whilst not in play at a kick-off,
goal kick, corner kick, free kick, penalty kick or throw-in:
• the match is restarted accordingly

The ball may not be changed during the match without the authority
of the referee.

LAW 2 – THE BALL

Decisions of the International F.A. Board

Decision

In addition to the requirements of Law 2, acceptance of a ball for
use in matches played in an offi cial competition organised under the
auspices of FIFA or the confederations is conditional upon the ball
bearing one of the following:

•

the

offi cial “FIFA APPROVED” logo

•

the

offi cial “FIFA INSPECTED” logo

• the “INTERNATIONAL MATCHBALL STANDARD” logo

Such a logo on a ball indicates that it has been tested offi cially and
found to be in compliance with specifi c technical requirements,
different for each logo and additional to the minimum specifi cations
stipulated in Law 2. The list of the additional requirements specifi c to
each of the respective logos must be approved by the International
F.A. Board. The institutes conducting the tests are subject to the
approval of FIFA.

Member association competitions may also require the use of balls
bearing any one of these three logos.

Decision

In matches played in an offi cial competition organised under the
auspices of FIFA, the confederations or the member associations,
no form of commercial advertising on the ball is permitted, except
for the emblem of the competition, the competition organiser and
the authorised trademark of the manufacturer. The competition
regulations may restrict the size and number of such markings.

LAW 3 – THE NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Players

A match is played by two teams, each consisting of not more than
eleven players, one of whom is the goalkeeper. A match may not start
if either team consists of fewer than seven players.

Offi cial Competitions

Up to a maximum of three substitutes may be used in any match
played in an offi cial competition organised under the auspices of FIFA,
the confederations or the member associations.

The rules of the competition must state how many substitutes may be
nominated, from three up to a maximum of seven.

Other Matches

In national A team matches, up to a maximum of six substitutes may
be used.

In all other matches, a greater number of substitutes may be used
provided that:
• the teams concerned reach agreement on a maximum number
• the referee is informed before the match

If the referee is not informed, or if no agreement is reached before the
match, no more than six substitutes are allowed.

All Matches

In all matches, the names of the substitutes must be given to the
referee prior to the start of the match. Any substitute whose name is
not given to the referee at this time may not take part in the match.

LAW 3 – THE NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Substitution Procedure

To replace a player with a substitute, the following conditions must be
observed:
• the referee must be informed before any proposed substitution is

made

• the substitute only enters the fi eld of play after the player being

replaced has left and after receiving a signal from the referee

• the substitute only enters the fi eld of play at the halfway line and

during a stoppage in the match

• the substitution is completed when a substitute enters the fi eld of

play

• from that moment, the substitute becomes a player and the player

he has replaced becomes a substituted player

• the substituted player takes no further part in the match
• all substitutes are subject to the authority and jurisdiction of the

referee, whether called upon to play or not

Changing the Goalkeeper

Any of the other players may change places with the goalkeeper,
provided that:
• the referee is informed before the change is made
• the change is made during a stoppage in the match

Infringements and Sanctions

If a substitute or substitituted player enters the fi eld of play without
the referee’s permission:
• the referee stops play (although not immediately if the substitute

or substituted player does not interfere with play)

• the referee cautions him for unsporting behaviour and orders him

to leave the fi eld of play

• if the referee has stopped play, it is restarted with an indirect free

kick for the opposing team from the position of the ball at the time
of the stoppage (see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick)

If a player changes places with the goalkeeper without the referee’s
permission before the change is made:
• the referee allows play to continue
• the referee cautions the players concerned when the ball is next

out of play

In the event of any other infringements of this Law:
• the players concerned are cautioned
• the match is restarted with an indirect free kick, to be taken by a

player of the opposing team from the position of the ball at the
time of the stoppage (see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick)

Players and Substitutes Sent Off

A player who has been sent off before the kick-off may be replaced
only by one of the named substitutes.

A named substitute who has been sent off, either before the kick-off
or after play has started, may not be replaced.

LAW 4 – THE PLAYERS’ EQUIPMENT

Safety

A player must not use equipment or wear anything that is dangerous
to himself or another player (including any kind of jewellery).

Basic Equipment

The basic compulsory equipment of a player comprises the following
separate items:
• a jersey or shirt with sleeves – if undergarments are worn, the

colour of the sleeve must be the same main colour as the sleeve
of the jersey or shirt.

• shorts – if undershorts are worn, they must be of the same main

colour as the shorts

• stockings
• shinguards
• footwear

Shinguards

•  are covered entirely by the stockings
•  are made of rubber, plastic or a similar suitable material
•  provide a reasonable degree of protection

Colours

• The two teams must wear colours that distinguish them from each

other and also the referee and the assistant referees

• Each goalkeeper must wear colours that distinguish him from the

other players, the referee and the assistant referees

Infringements and Sanctions

In the event of any infringement of this Law:
• play need not be stopped
• the player at fault is instructed by the referee to leave the fi eld of

play to correct his equipment

• the player leaves the fi eld of play when the ball next ceases to be

in play, unless he has already corrected his equipment

• any player required to leave the fi eld of play to correct his equipment

must not re-enter without the referee’s permission

• the referee checks that the player’s equipment is correct before

allowing him to re-enter the fi eld of play

• the player is only allowed to re-enter the fi eld of play when the

ball is out of play

A player who has been required to leave the fi eld of play because of an
infringement of this Law and who re-enters the fi eld of play without
the referee’s permission must be cautioned.

Restart of Play

If play is stopped by the referee to administer a caution:
• the match is restarted by an indirect free kick taken by a player

of the opposing team, from the place where the ball was located
when the referee stopped the match (see Law 13 – Position of Free
Kick)

LAW 4 – THE PLAYERS’ EQUIPMENT

Decisions of the International F.A. Board

Decision

Players must not reveal undergarments showing slogans or advertising.
The basic compulsory equipment must not have any political, religious
or personal statements.

A player removing his jersey or shirt to reveal slogans or advertising
will be sanctioned by the competition organiser. The team of a player
whose basic compulsory equipment has political, religious or personal
slogans or statements will be sanctioned by the competition organiser
or by FIFA.

The Authority of the Referee

Each match is controlled by a referee who has full authority to enforce
the Laws of the Game in connection with the match to which he has
been appointed.

Powers and Duties

The

Referee:

• enforces the Laws of the Game
• controls the match in cooperation with the assistant referees and,

where applicable, with the fourth offi cial

• ensures that any ball used meets the requirements of Law 2
• ensures that the players’ equipment meets the requirements of

Law 4

• acts as timekeeper and keeps a record of the match
• stops, suspends or abandons the match, at his discretion, for any

infringements of the Laws

• stops, suspends or abandons the match because of outside

interference of any kind

• stops the match if, in his opinion, a player is seriously injured and

ensures that he is removed from the fi eld of play. An injured player
may only return to the fi eld of play after the match has restarted

• allows play to continue until the ball is out of play if a player is, in

his opinion, only slightly injured

• ensures that any player bleeding from a wound leaves the fi eld

of play. The player may only return on receiving a signal from the
referee, who must be satisfi ed that the bleeding has stopped

• allows play to continue when the team against which an offence

has been committed will benefi t from such an advantage and
penalises the original offence if the anticipated advantage does
not ensue at that time

• punishes the more serious offence when a player commits more

than one offence at the same time

• takes disciplinary action against players guilty of cautionable

and sending-off offences. He is not obliged to take this action
immediately but must do so when the ball next goes out of play

LAW 5 – THE REFEREE

• takes action against team offi cials who fail to conduct themselves

in a responsible manner and may, at his discretion, expel them
from the fi eld of play and its immediate surrounds

• acts on the advice of the assistant referees regarding incidents that

he has not seen

•  ensures that no unauthorised persons enter the fi eld of play
•  indicates the restart of the match after it has been stopped
•  provides the appropriate authorities with a match report, which

includes information on any disciplinary action taken against players
and/or team offi cials and any other incidents that occurred before,
during or after the match

Decisions of the Referee

The decisions of the referee regarding facts connected with play,
including whether or not a goal is scored and the result of the match,
are fi nal.

The referee may only change a decision on realising that it is incorrect
or, at his discretion, on the advice of an assistant referee or the fourth
offi cial, provided that he has not restarted play or terminated the
match.

Decisions of the International F.A. Board

Decision

A referee (or where applicable, an assistant referee or fourth offi cial)
is not held liable for:

any kind of injury suffered by a player, offi cial or spectator

any damage to property of any kind

any other loss suffered by any individual, club, company, association
or other body, which is due or which may be due to any decision that
he may take under the terms of the Laws of the Game or in respect of
the normal procedures required to hold, play and control a match.

Such decisions may include:
• a decision that the condition of the fi eld of play or its surrounds or

that the weather conditions are such as to allow or not to allow a
match to take place

• a decision to abandon a match for whatever reason
• a decision as to the suitability of the fi eld equipment and ball used

during a match

• a decision to stop or not to stop a match due to spectator interference

or any problem in spectator areas

• a decision to stop or not to stop play to allow an injured player to

be removed from the fi eld of play for treatment

• a decision to require an injured player to be removed from the fi eld

of play for treatment

• a decision to allow or not to allow a player to wear certain apparel

or equipment

• a decision (where he has the authority) to allow or not to allow

any persons (including team or stadium offi cials, security offi cers,
photographers or other media representatives) to be present in the
vicinity of the fi eld of play

• any other decision that he may take in accordance with the Laws

of the Game or in conformity with his duties under the terms
of FIFA, confederation, member association or league rules or
regulations under which the match is played

Decision

In tournaments or competitions where a fourth offi cial is appointed, his
role and duties must be in accordance with the guidelines approved by
the International F.A. Board, which are contained in this publication.

LAW 6 – THE ASSISTANT REFEREES

Duties

Two assistant referees may be appointed whose duties, subject to the
decision of the referee, are to indicate:
•  when the whole of the ball leaves the fi eld of play
•  which team is entitled to a corner kick, goal kick or throw-in
•  when a player may be penalised for being in an offside position
•  when a substitution is requested
•  when misconduct or any other incident occurs out of the view of

the referee

• when offences have been committed whenever the assistant

referees have a better view than the referee (this includes, in
certain circumstances, offences committed in the penalty area)

• whether, at penalty kicks, the goalkeeper moves off the goal line

before the ball is kicked and if the ball crosses the line

Assistance

The assistant referees also assist the referee to control the match in
accordance with the Laws of the Game. In particular, they may enter
the fi eld of play to help control the 9.15 m (10 yds) distance.

In the event of undue interference or improper conduct, the referee
will relieve an assistant referee of his duties and make a report to the
appropriate authorities.

Periods of Play

The match lasts two equal periods of 45 minutes, unless otherwise
mutually agreed between the referee and the two teams. Any agreement
to alter the duration of the periods of play (for example, to reduce each
half to 40 minutes because of insuffi cient light) must be made before
the start of play and must comply with competition rules.

Half-time Interval

Players are entitled to an interval at half-time.

The half-time interval must not exceed 15 minutes.

Competition rules must state the duration of the half-time interval.

The duration of the half-time interval may be altered only with the
consent of the referee.

LAW 7 – THE DURATION OF THE MATCH

Allowance for Time Lost

Allowance is made in either period for all time lost through:
• substitutions
• assessment of injury to players
• removal of injured players from the fi eld of play for treatment
• wasting

time

• any other cause

The allowance for time lost is at the discretion of the referee.

Penalty Kick

If a penalty kick has to be taken or retaken, the duration of either half
is extended until the penalty kick is completed.

Abandoned Match

An abandoned match is replayed unless the competition rules provide
otherwise.

Preliminaries

A coin is tossed and the team that wins the toss decides which goal
it will attack in the fi rst half of the match.

The other team takes the kick-off to start the match.

The team that wins the toss takes the kick-off to start the second half
of the match.

In the second half of the match, the teams change ends and attack
the opposite goals.

Kick-off

A kick-off is a way of starting or restarting play:
•  at the start of the match
•  after a goal has been scored
•  at the start of the second half of the match
•  at the start of each period of extra time, where applicable

A goal may be scored directly from the kick-off.

Procedure

• all players must be in their own half of the fi eld of play
• the opponents of the team taking the kick-off are at least 9.15 m

(10 yds) from the ball until it is in play

•  the ball must be stationary on the centre mark
•  the referee gives a signal
•  the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward
•  the kicker must not touch the ball again until it has touched another

player

After a team scores a goal, the kick-off is taken by the other team.

LAW 8 – THE START AND RESTART OF PLAY

Infringements and Sanctions

If the player taking the kick-off touches the ball again before it has
touched another player:
• an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team to be taken

from the position of the ball when the infringement occurred (see
Law 13 – Position of Free Kick)

In the event of any other infringement of the kick-off procedure:
• the kick-off is retaken

Dropped Ball

If, while the ball is still in play, the referee is required to stop play
temporarily for any reason not mentioned elsewhere in the Laws of
the Game, the match is restarted with a dropped ball.

Procedure

The referee drops the ball at the place where it was located when play
was stopped, unless play was stopped inside the goal area, in which
case the referee drops the ball on the goal area line parallel to the goal
line at the point nearest to where the ball was located when play was
stopped.

Play restarts when the ball touches the ground.

Infringements and Sanctions

The ball is dropped again:
• if it is touched by a player before it makes contact with the

ground

• if the ball leaves the fi eld of play after it makes contact with the

ground, without a player touching it

Ball Out of Play

The ball is out of play when:
• it has wholly crossed the goal line or touch line whether on the

ground or in the air

• play has been stopped by the referee

Ball In Play

The ball is in play at all other times, including when:
• it rebounds off a goalpost, crossbar or corner fl agpost and remains

in the fi eld of play

• it rebounds off either the referee or an assistant referee when they

are on the fi eld of play

LAW 9 – THE BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY

Ball in play

Ball out of play

Ball in play

Ball rebounding from

corner fl agpost,

goalpost or crossbar into

fi eld of play is in play

Ball in play

Goal Scored

A goal is scored when the whole of the ball passes over the goal
line, between the goalposts and under the crossbar, provided that no
infringement of the Laws of the Game has been committed previously
by the team scoring the goal.

Winning Team

The team scoring the greater number of goals during a match is the
winner. If both teams score an equal number of goals, or if no goals
are scored, the match is drawn.

Competition Rules

When competition rules require there to be a winning team after
a match or home-and-away tie, the only permitted procedures for
determining the winning team are those approved by the International
F.A. Board, namely:
• away goals rule
• extra

time

• kicks from the penalty mark

LAW 10 – THE METHOD OF SCORING

No goal

Goal

LAW 11 – OFFSIDE

Offside Position

It is not an offence in itself to be in an offside position.

A player is in an offside position if:
• he is nearer to his opponents’ goal line than both the ball and the

second last opponent

A player is not in an offside position if:
•  he is in his own half of the fi eld of play or
•  he is level with the second last opponent or
•  he is level with the last two opponents

Offence

A player in an offside position is only penalised if, at the moment the
ball touches or is played by one of his team, he is, in the opinion of
the referee, involved in active play by:
•  interfering with play or
•  interfering with an opponent or
•  gaining an advantage by being in that position

No Offence

There is no offside offence if a player receives the ball directly from:
• a goal kick
• a

throw-in

• a corner kick

Infringements and Sanctions

In the event of an offside offence, the referee awards an indirect
free kick to the opposing team to be taken from the place where the
infringement occurred (see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick).

Fouls and misconduct are penalised as follows:

Direct Free Kick

A direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player commits
any of the following seven offences in a manner considered by the
referee to be careless, reckless or using excessive force:
•  kicks or attempts to kick an opponent
•  trips or attempts to trip an opponent
•  jumps at an opponent
•  charges an opponent
•  strikes or attempts to strike an opponent
•  pushes an opponent
•  tackles an opponent

A direct free kick is also awarded to the opposing team if a player
commits any of the following three offences:
•  holds an opponent
•  spits at an opponent
•  handles the ball deliberately (except for the goalkeeper within his

own penalty area)

A direct free kick is taken from the place where the offence occurred
(see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick).

Penalty Kick

A penalty kick is awarded if any of the above ten offences is committed
by a player inside his own penalty area, irrespective of the position of
the ball, provided it is in play.

LAW 12 – FOULS AND MISCONDUCT

Indirect Free Kick

An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a goalkeeper,
inside his own penalty area, commits any of the following four offences:
• controls the ball with his hands for more than six seconds before

releasing it from his possession

• touches the ball again with his hands after he has released it from

his possession and before it has touched another player

• touches the ball with his hands after it has been deliberately kicked

to him by a team-mate

• touches the ball with his hands after he has received it directly from

a throw-in taken by a team-mate

An indirect free kick is also awarded to the opposing team if, in the
opinion of the referee, a player:
•  plays in a dangerous manner
•  impedes the progress of an opponent
•  prevents the goalkeeper from releasing the ball from his hands
•  commits any other offence, not previously mentioned in Law 12,

for which play is stopped to caution or send off a player

The indirect free kick is taken from the place where the offence
occurred (see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick).

Disciplinary Sanctions

The yellow card is used to communicate that a player, substitute or
substituted player has been cautioned.

The red card is used to communicate that a player, substitute or
substituted player has been sent off.

Only a player, substitute or substituted player may be shown the red
or yellow card.

The referee has the authority to take disciplinary sanctions from the
moment he enters the fi eld of play until he leaves the fi eld of play after
the fi nal whistle.

A player who commits a cautionable or sending-off offence, either
on or off the fi eld of play, whether directed towards an opponent, a
team-mate, the referee, an assistant referee or any other person, is
disciplined according to the nature of the offence committed.

Cautionable Offences

A player is cautioned and shown the yellow card if he commits any of
the following seven offences:
• unsporting

behaviour

•  dissent by word or action
•  persistent infringement of the Laws of the Game
•  delaying the restart of play
•  failure to respect the required distance when play is restarted with

a corner kick, free kick or throw-in

• entering or re-entering the fi eld of play without the referee’s

permission

• deliberately leaving the field of play without the referee’s

permission

A substitute or substituted player is cautioned if he commits any of
the following three offences:
• unsporting

behaviour

• dissent by word or action
• delaying the restart of play

LAW 12 – FOULS AND MISCONDUCT

Sending-off Offences

A player, substitute or substituted player is sent off if he commits any
of the following seven offences:
• serious foul play
• violent

conduct

• spitting at an opponent or any other person
• denying the opposing team a goal or an obvious goal-scoring

opportunity by deliberately handling the ball (this does not apply
to a goalkeeper within his own penalty area)

• denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity to an opponent

moving towards the player’s goal by an offence punishable by a
free kick or a penalty kick

• using offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures
• receiving a second caution in the same match

A player, substitute or substituted player who has been sent off must
leave the vicinity of the fi eld of play and the technical area.

LAW 13 – FREE KICKS

Types of Free Kick

Free kicks are either direct or indirect.

The Direct Free Kick

Ball Enters the Goal

• if a direct free kick is kicked directly into the opponents’ goal, a

goal is awarded

• if a direct free kick is kicked directly into the team’s own goal, a

corner kick is awarded to the opposing team

The Indirect Free Kick

Signal

The referee indicates an indirect free kick by raising his arm above his
head. He maintains his arm in that position until the kick has been
taken and the ball has touched another player or goes out of play.

Ball Enters the Goal

A goal can be scored only if the ball subsequently touches another
player before it enters the goal:
• if an indirect free kick is kicked directly into the opponents’ goal,

a goal kick is awarded

• if an indirect free kick is kicked directly into the team’s own goal,

a corner kick is awarded to the opposing team

Procedure

For both direct and indirect free kicks, the ball must be stationary
when the kick is taken and the kicker must not touch the ball again
until it has touched another player.

LAW 13 – FREE KICKS

Position of Free Kick

Free Kick Inside the Penalty Area

Direct or indirect free kick to the defending team:

• all opponents must be at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball
• all opponents must remain outside the penalty area until the ball

is in play

• the ball is in play when it is kicked directly out of the penalty

area

• a free kick awarded in the goal area may be taken from any point

inside that area

Indirect free kick to the attacking team:

• all opponents must be at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball until

it is in play, unless they are on their own goal line between the
goalposts

• the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves
• an indirect free kick awarded inside the goal area must be taken

on the goal area line parallel to the goal line at the point nearest
to where the infringement occurred

Free Kick Outside the Penalty Area

• all opponents must be at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball until

it is in play

• the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves
• the free kick is taken from the place where the infringement

occurred or from the position of the ball when the infringement
occurred (according to the infringement)

Infringements and Sanctions

If, when a free kick is taken, an opponent is closer to the ball than
the required distance:
• the kick is retaken

If, when a free kick is taken by the defending team from inside its own
penalty area, the ball is not kicked directly out of the penalty area:
• the kick is retaken

Free kick taken by a player other than the goalkeeper

If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball again (except
with his hands) before it has touched another player:
• an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick

to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred (see
Law 13 – Position of Free Kick)

If, after the ball is in play, the kicker deliberately handles the ball
before it has touched another player:
• a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be

taken from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law
13 – Position of Free Kick)

• a penalty kick is awarded if the infringement occurred inside the

kicker’s penalty area

LAW 13 – FREE KICKS

Free kick taken by the goalkeeper

If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper touches the ball again
(except with his hands), before it has touched another player:
• an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick

to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred (see
Law 13 – Position of Free Kick)

If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper deliberately handles the ball
before it has touched another player:
• a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement

occurred outside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be taken
from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law 13 –
Position of Free Kick)

• an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the

infringement occurred inside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the
kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred
(see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick)

A penalty kick is awarded against a team that commits one of the ten
offences for which a direct free kick is awarded, inside its own penalty
area and while the ball is in play.

A goal may be scored directly from a penalty kick.

Additional time is allowed for a penalty kick to be taken at the end of
each half or at the end of periods of extra time.

Position of the Ball and the Players

The

ball:

• must be placed on the penalty mark

The player taking the penalty kick:
• must be properly identifi ed

The defending goalkeeper:
• must remain on his goal line, facing the kicker, between the

goalposts until the ball has been kicked

The players other than the kicker must be located:
•  inside the fi eld of play
•  outside the penalty area
•  behind the penalty mark
•  at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the penalty mark

LAW 14 – THE PENALTY KICK

Procedure

• After the players have taken positions in accordance with this Law,

the referee signals for the penalty kick to be taken

•  The player taking the penalty kick must kick the ball forward
•  He must not play the ball again until it has touched another player
•  The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward

When a penalty kick is taken during the normal course of play, or time
has been extended at half-time or full time to allow a penalty kick to
be taken or retaken, a goal is awarded if, before passing between the
goalposts and under the crossbar:
• the ball touches either or both of the goalposts and/or the crossbar

and/or the goalkeeper

The referee decides when a penalty kick has been completed.

Infringements and Sanctions

If the referee gives the signal for a penalty kick to be taken and,
before the ball is in play, one of the following occurs:

the player taking the penalty kick infringes the Laws of the Game:
•  the referee allows the kick to be taken
•  if the ball enters the goal, the kick is retaken
•  if the ball does not enter the goal, the referee stops play and the

match is restarted with an indirect free kick to the defending team,
from the place where the infringement occurred

the goalkeeper infringes the Laws of the Game:
•  the referee allows the kick to be taken
•  if the ball enters the goal, a goal is awarded
•  if the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is retaken

a team-mate of the player taking the kick infringes the Laws of the Game:
•  the referee allows the kick to be taken
•  if the ball enters the goal, the kick is retaken
•  if the ball does not enter the goal, the referee stops play and the

match is restarted with an indirect free kick to the defending team,
from the place where the infringement occurred

a team-mate of the goalkeeper infringes the Laws of the Game:
•  the referee allows the kick to be taken
•  if the ball enters the goal, a goal is awarded
•  if the ball does not enter the goal, the kick is retaken

a player of both the defending team and the attacking team infringe
the Laws of the Game:
• the kick is retaken

If, after the penalty kick has been taken:

the kicker touches the ball again (except with his hands) before it has
touched another player:
• an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to

be taken from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law
13 – Position of Free Kick)

the kicker deliberately handles the ball before it has touched another
player:
• a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be

taken from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law
13 – Position of Free Kick)

the ball is touched by an outside agent as it moves forward:
• the kick is retaken

the ball rebounds into the fi eld of play from the goalkeeper, the
crossbar or the goalposts, and is then touched by an outside agent:
• the referee stops play
• play is restarted with a dropped ball at the place where it touched

the outside agent, unless it touched the outside agent inside the
goal area, in which case the referee drops the ball on the goal area
line parallel to the goal line at the point nearest to where the ball
was located when play was stopped

LAW 15 – THE THROW-IN

A throw-in is a method of restarting play.

A throw-in is awarded to the opponents of the player who last touched
the ball when the whole of the ball crosses the touch line, either on
the ground or in the air.

A goal cannot be scored directly from a throw-in.

Procedure

At the moment of delivering the ball, the thrower:
• faces the fi eld of play
• has part of each foot either on the touch line or on the ground

outside the touch line

•  holds the ball with both hands
•  delivers the ball from behind and over his head
•  delivers the ball from the point where it left the fi eld of play

All opponents must stand no less than 2 m (2 yds) from the point at
which the throw-in is taken.

The ball is in play when it enters the fi eld of play.

After delivering the ball, the thrower must not touch the ball again
until it has touched another player.

Infringements and Sanctions

Throw-in taken by a player other than the goalkeeper

If, after the ball is in play, the thrower touches the ball again (except
with his hands) before it has touched another player:
• an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to

be taken from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law
13 – Position of Free Kick)

If, after the ball is in play, the thrower deliberately handles the ball
before it has touched another player:
• a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be

taken from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law
13 – Position of Free Kick)

• a penalty kick is awarded if the infringement occurred inside the

thrower’s penalty area

Throw-in taken by the goalkeeper

If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper touches the ball again (except
with his hands), before it has touched another player:
• an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to

be taken from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law
13 – Position of Free Kick)

If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper deliberately handles the ball
before it has touched another player:
• a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement

occurred outside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be taken
from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law 13 –
Position of Free Kick)

• an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the

infringement occurred inside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the
kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred
(see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick)

If an opponent unfairly distracts or impedes the thrower:
• he is cautioned for unsporting behaviour

For any other infringement of this Law:
• the throw-in is taken by a player of the opposing team

A goal kick is a method of restarting play.

A goal kick is awarded when the whole of the ball passes over the goal
line, either on the ground or in the air, having last touched a player of the
attacking team, and a goal is not scored in accordance with Law 10.

A goal may be scored directly from a goal kick, but only against the
opposing team.

Procedure

• The ball is kicked from any point within the goal area by a player

of the defending team

• Opponents remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play
• The kicker must not play the ball again until it has touched another

player

• The ball is in play when it is kicked directly out of the penalty area

Infringements and Sanctions

If the ball is not kicked directly out of the penalty area from a goal
kick:
• the kick is retaken

Goal kick taken by a player other than the goalkeeper

If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball again (except with
his hands) before it has touched another player:
• an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to

be taken from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law
13 – Position of Free Kick)

If, after the ball is in play, the kicker deliberately handles the ball before
it has touched another player:
• a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be

taken from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law
13 – Position of Free Kick)

• a penalty kick is awarded if the infringement occurred inside the

kicker’s penalty area

LAW 16 – THE GOAL KICK

Goal kick taken by the goalkeeper

If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper touches the ball again (except
with his hands) before it has touched another player:
• an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to

be taken from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law
13 – Position of Free Kick)

If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper deliberately handles the ball
before it has touched another player:
• a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement

occurred outside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be taken
from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law 13 –
Position of Free Kick)

• an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the

infringement occurred inside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the
kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred
(see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick)

In the event of any other infringement of this Law:
• the kick is retaken

A corner kick is a method of restarting play.

A corner kick is awarded when the whole of the ball passes over the
goal line, either on the ground or in the air, having last touched a
player of the defending team, and a goal is not scored in accordance
with Law 10.

A goal may be scored directly from a corner kick, but only against the
opposing team.

Procedure

• The ball must be placed inside the corner arc nearest to the point

where the ball crossed the goal line

• The corner fl agpost must not be moved
• Opponents must remain at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the corner

arc until the ball is in play

•  The ball must be kicked by a player of the attacking team
•  The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves
•  The kicker must not play the ball again until it has touched another

player

LAW 17 – THE CORNER KICK

Infringements and Sanctions

Corner kick taken by a player other than the goalkeeper

If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touches the ball again (except with
his hands) before it has touched another player:
• an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to

be taken from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law
13 – Position of Free Kick)

If, after the ball is in play, the kicker deliberately handles the ball before
it has touched another player:
• a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team, the kick to be

taken from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law
13 – Position of Free Kick)

• a penalty kick is awarded if the infringement occurred inside the

kicker’s penalty area

Corner kick taken by the goalkeeper

be taken from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law
13 – Position of Free Kick)

If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeper deliberately handles the ball
before it has touched another player:
• a direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the infringement

occurred outside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be taken
from the place where the infringement occurred (see Law 13 –
Position of Free Kick)

• an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if the

infringement occurred inside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the
kick to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred
(see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick)

In the event of any other infringement:
• the kick is retaken

Away goals, extra time and kicks from the penalty mark are the three
methods approved for determining the winning team where competition
rules require there to be a winning team after a match has been
drawn.

Away

Goals

Competition rules may provide that where teams play each other home
and away, if the aggregated scores are equal after the second match, any
goals scored at the ground of the opposing team will count double.

Extra

Time

Competition rules may provide for two further equal periods, not exceeding
15 minutes each, to be played. The conditions of Law 8 will apply.

Kicks from the Penalty Mark

Procedure

• The referee chooses the goal at which the kicks will be taken
• The referee tosses a coin and the team whose captain wins the toss

decides whether to take the fi rst or the second kick

• The referee keeps a record of the kicks being taken
• Subject to the conditions explained below, both teams take fi ve

kicks

• The kicks are taken alternately by the teams
• If, before both teams have taken fi ve kicks, one has scored more goals

than the other could score, even if it were to complete its fi ve kicks,
no more kicks are taken

• If, after both teams have taken fi ve kicks, both have scored the same

number of goals, or have not scored any goals, kicks continue to be
taken in the same order until one team has scored a goal more than
the other from the same number of kicks

• A goalkeeper who is injured while kicks are being taken from the

penalty mark and is unable to continue as goalkeeper may be replaced
by a named substitute provided his team has not used the maximum
number of substitutes permitted under the competition rules

• With the exception of the foregoing case, only players who are on

the fi eld of play at the end of the match, which includes extra time
where appropriate, are eligible to take kicks from the penalty mark

PROCEDURES TO DETERMINE THE WINNER OF A MATCH OR HOME-AND-AWAY

• Each kick is taken by a different player and all eligible players must take

a kick before any player can take a second kick

• An eligible player may change places with the goalkeeper at any time

when kicks from the penalty mark are being taken

• Only the eligible players and match offi cials are permitted to remain on

the fi eld of play when kicks from the penalty mark are being taken

• All players, except the player taking the kick and the two goalkeepers,

must remain within the centre circle

• The goalkeeper who is the team-mate of the kicker must remain on

the fi eld of play, outside the penalty area in which the kicks are being
taken, on the goal line where it meets the penalty area boundary line

• Unless otherwise stated, the relevant Laws of the Game and

International F.A. Board Decisions apply when kicks from the penalty
mark are being taken

• If, at the end of the match and before kicks start to be taken from the

penalty mark, one team has a greater number of players than their
opponents, they must reduce their numbers to equate with that of
their opponents and the team captain must inform the referee of the
name and number of each player excluded

• Before the start of kicks from the penalty mark, the referee must ensure

that an equal number of players from each team remains within the
centre circle and they shall take the kicks

TAKING KICKS FROM THE PENALTY MARK

Goalkeeper of
kicker’s team

Assistant referee

Kicker

Referee

No offi cials,

coaches, etc.,

allowed on fi eld

of play

Assistant referee

All other

players within

centre circle

THE TECHNICAL AREA

The technical area relates to matches played in stadiums with a
designated seated area for technical staff and substitutes as described
below.

While the size and position of technical areas may differ between
stadiums, the following notes are issued for general guidance:

• the technical area extends 1 m (1 yd) on either side of the

designated seated area and extends forward up to a distance of
1 m (1 yd) from the touch line

• it is recommended that markings are used to defi ne this area
• the number of persons permitted to occupy the technical area is

defi ned by the competition rules

• the occupants of the technical area are identifi ed before the

beginning of the match in accordance with the competition rules

• only one person at a time is authorised to convey tactical

instructions and he must return to his position after giving these
instructions

• the coach and other offi cials must remain within its confi nes except

in special circumstances, for example, a physiotherapist or doctor
entering the fi eld of play, with the referee’s permission, to assess
an injured player

• the coach and other occupants of the technical area must behave

in a responsible manner

• A fourth offi cial may be appointed under the competition rules and

offi ciates if any of the three match offi cials is unable to continue,
unless a reserve assistant referee is appointed. He assists the referee
at all times

• Prior to the start of the competition, the organiser states clearly

whether, if the referee is unable to continue, the fourth offi cial
takes over as the referee or whether the senior assistant referee
takes over as referee with the fourth offi cial becoming an assistant
referee

• The fourth offi cial assists with any administrative duties before,

during and after the match, as required by the referee

• He is responsible for assisting with substitution procedures during

the match

• He has the authority to check the equipment of substitutes before

they enter the fi eld of play. If their equipment does not comply
with the Laws of the Game, he informs the referee

• He supervises the replacement balls, where required. If the match

ball has to be replaced during a match, he provides another ball,
on the instruction of the referee, thus keeping the delay to a
minimum

• He must indicate to the referee when the wrong player is cautioned

because of mistaken identity or when a player is not sent off having
been seen to be given a second caution or when violent conduct
occurs out of the view of the referee and assistant referees. The
referee, however, retains the authority to decide on all points
connected with play

• After the match, the fourth offi cial must submit a report to the

appropriate authorities on any misconduct or other incident that
occurred out of the view of the referee and the assistant referees.
The fourth offi cial must advise the referee and his assistants of any
report being made

• He has the authority to inform the referee of irresponsible behaviour

by any occupant of the technical area

• A reserve assistant referee may also be appointed under competition

rules. His only duty shall be to replace an assistant referee who is
unable to continue or to replace the fourth offi cial, as required

THE FOURTH OFFICIAL AND THE RESERVE ASSISTANT REFEREE

Field markings

It is not permissible to mark the fi eld of play with broken lines or
furrows.

If a player makes unauthorised marks on the fi eld of play with his foot,
he must be cautioned for unsporting behaviour. If the referee notices
this being done during the match, he must caution the offending
player for unsporting behaviour when the ball next goes out of play.

Only the lines indicated in Law 1 are to be marked on the fi eld of
play.

Goals

If the crossbar becomes displaced or broken, play is stopped until it
has been repaired or replaced in position. If it is not possible to repair
the crossbar, the match must be abandoned. The use of a rope to
replace the crossbar is not permitted. If the crossbar can be repaired,
the match is restarted with a dropped ball at the place where the ball
was located when play was stopped, unless play was stopped inside
the goal area, in which case the referee drops the ball on the goal area
line parallel to the goal line at the point nearest to where the ball was
located when play was stopped.

LAW 1 – THE FIELD OF PLAY

Commercial advertising

Commercial advertising shall be at least 1 m (1 yd) from the boundary
lines of the fi eld of play.

No form of commercial advertising, whether real or virtual, is permitted
on the fi eld of play, on the ground within the area enclosed by the
goal nets or the technical area, or within 1 m (1 yd) of the touch line
from the time the teams enter the fi eld of play until they have left it
at half-time and from the time the teams re-enter the fi eld of play
until the end of the match. Similarly, advertising is not permitted on
the goals, nets, fl agposts or their fl ags and no extraneous equipment
(cameras, microphones etc.) may be attached to these items.

Logos and emblems

The reproduction, whether real or virtual, of representative logos or
emblems of FIFA, confederations, member associations, leagues, clubs
or other bodies is forbidden on the fi eld of play, the goal nets and
the areas they enclose, the goals, the fl agposts and their fl ags during
playing time.

Additional balls

Additional balls may be placed around the fi eld of play for use during
a match provided that they meet the requirements of Law 2 and their
use is under the control of the referee.

Extra balls on the fi eld of play

If an extra ball enters the fi eld of play during the match, the referee
must stop the match only if it interferes with play. Play must be restarted
by a dropped ball in the position where the match ball was at the time
when the match was stopped, unless play was stopped inside the goal
area, in which case the referee drops the ball on the goal area line
parallel to the goal line at the point nearest to where the ball was
located when play was stopped.

If an extra ball enters the fi eld of play during the match without
interfering with play, the referee must have it removed at the earliest
possible opportunity.

LAW 2 – THE BALL

LAW 3 – THE NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Substitution procedure

•  A substitution may be made only during a stoppage in play
•  The assistant referee signals that a substitution has been requested
•  The player being substituted receives the referee’s permission to

leave the fi eld of play, unless he is already off the fi eld of play for
reasons that comply with the Laws of the Game

• The referee gives the substitute permission to enter the fi eld of

play

• Before entering the fi eld of play, the substitute waits for the player

he is replacing to leave the fi eld

• The player being substituted is not obliged to leave the fi eld of play

on the halfway line

• Permission to proceed with a substitution may be refused under

certain circumstances, e.g. if the substitute is not ready to enter
the fi eld of play

• A substitute who has not completed the substitution procedure

by setting foot onto the fi eld of play cannot restart play by taking
a throw-in or corner kick

• If a player who is about to be replaced refuses to leave the fi eld of

play, play continues

• If a substitution is made during the half-time interval or before

extra time, the procedure is to be completed before the second
half or extra time kicks off

LAW 3 – THE NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Extra persons on the fi eld of play

Outside

agents

Anyone not indicated on the team list as a player, substitute or team
offi cial is deemed to be an outside agent as is a player who has been
sent off.

If an outside agent enters the fi eld of play:
• the referee must stop play (although not immediately if the outside

agent does not interfere with play)

• the referee must have him removed from the fi eld of play and its

immediate surroundings

• if the referee stops the match, he must restart play with a dropped

ball in the position where the ball was at the time when the match
was stopped, unless play was stopped inside the goal area, in
which case the referee drops the ball on the goal area line parallel
to the goal line at the point nearest to where the ball was located
when play was stopped

Team

offi cials

If a team offi cial enters the fi eld of play:
• the referee must stop play (although not immediately if the team

offi cial does not interfere with play or if the advantage can be
applied)

• the referee must have him removed from the fi eld of play and if

his behaviour is irresponsible, the referee must expel him from the
fi eld of play and its immediate surroundings

• if the referee stops the match, he must restart play with a dropped

Player outside the fi eld of play

If, after leaving the fi eld of play to correct unauthorised equipment or
kit, to be treated for an injury or bleeding, because he has blood on
his kit or for any other reason with the referee’s permission, a player
re-enters the fi eld of play without the referee’s permission, the referee
must:
• stop play (although not immediately if the player does not interfere

with play or if the advantage can be applied)

• caution the player for entering the fi eld of play without permission
• order the player to leave the fi eld of play if necessary (e.g. infringement

of Law 4)

If the referee stops play, it must be restarted:
• with an indirect free kick for the opposing team from the position

of the ball when play was stopped (see Law 13 – Position of Free
Kick) if there is no other infringement

• in accordance with Law 12 if the player infringes this Law

If a player accidentally crosses one of the boundary lines of the fi eld of
play, he is not deemed to have committed an infringement. Going off
the fi eld of play may be considered to be part of a playing movement.

Substitute or substituted player

If a substitute or a substituted player enters the fi eld of play without
permission:
• the referee must stop play (although not immediately if the player

in question does not interfere with play or if the advantage can be
applied)

• the referee must caution him for unsporting behaviour
• the player must leave the fi eld of play

If the referee stops play, it must be restarted with an indirect free kick
for the opposing team from the position of the ball when play was
stopped (see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick).

LAW 3 – THE NUMBER OF PLAYERS

Goal scored with an extra person on the fi eld of play

If, after a goal is scored, the referee realises, before play restarts, that
there was an extra person on the fi eld of play when the goal was
scored:
• the referee must disallow the goal if:

– the extra person was an outside agent and he interfered with

play

– the extra person was a player, substitute, substituted player or

team offi cial associated with the team that scored the goal

• the referee must allow the goal if:

– the extra person was an outside agent who did not interfere

with play

– the extra person was a player, substitute, substituted player or

team offi cial associated with the team that conceded the goal

Minimum number of players

If the rules of a competition state that all of the players and substitutes
must be named before kick-off and a team begins a match with fewer
than 11 players, only the players named in the starting line-up may
complete the 11 upon their arrival.

Although a match may not START if either team consists of fewer than
seven players, the minimum number of players in a team required for
a match to CONTINUE is left to the discretion of member associations.
However, it is the opinion of the International F.A. Board that a match
should not continue if there are fewer than seven players in either
team.

If a team has fewer than seven players because one or more players
has deliberately left the fi eld of play, the referee is not obliged to
stop the match and the advantage may be played. In such cases, the
referee must not allow the match to resume after the ball has gone
out of play if a team does not have the minimum number of seven
players.

LAW 4 – THE PLAYERS’ EQUIPMENT

Basic equipment

Colours:
• If the jerseys of the two goalkeepers are the same colour and neither

has another jersey to change into, the referee shall allow play to
begin

If a player loses his footwear accidentally and immediately plays the
ball and/or scores a goal, there is no infringement and the goal is
awarded because he lost his footwear by accident.

Goalkeepers may wear tracksuit bottoms as part as their basic
equipment.

Other equipment

A player may use equipment other than the basic equipment provided
that its sole purpose is to protect him physically and it poses no danger
to him or any other player.

All items of clothing or equipment other than the basic equipment must
be inspected by the referee and determined not to be dangerous.

Modern protective equipment such as headgear, facemasks and knee
and arm protectors made of soft, lightweight padded material are not
considered dangerous and are therefore permitted.

In view of the new technology that has made sports spectacles much
safer, both for the wearer and for other players, referees should show
tolerance when authorising their use, particularly for younger players.

If an item of clothing or equipment that has been inspected at the start
of a match and determined not to be dangerous becomes dangerous
or is used in a dangerous manner during the match, its use must no
longer be allowed.

The use of radio communication systems between players and/or technical
staff is not permitted.

LAW 4 – THE PLAYERS’ EQUIPMENT

Jewellery

All items of jewellery (necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, leather
bands, rubber bands etc.) are strictly forbidden and must be removed.
Using tape to cover jewellery is not acceptable.

Referees are also prohibited from wearing jewellery (except for a watch
or similar device for timing the match).

Disciplinary sanctions

The players are to be inspected before the match begins and substitutes
before they enter the fi eld of play. If a player is discovered to be wearing
unauthorised clothing or jewellery during play, the referee must:
• inform the player that the item in question must be removed
• order the player to leave the fi eld of play at the next stoppage if

he is unable or unwilling to comply

• caution the player if he wilfully refuses to comply or, having been

told to remove the item, is discovered to be wearing the item
again

If play is stopped to caution the player, an indirect free kick must be
awarded to the opposing team from the position of the ball when play
was stopped (see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick).

LAW 5 – THE REFEREE

Powers & Duties

The referee is authorised to stop play if, in his opinion, the fl oodlights
are inadequate.

If an object thrown by a spectator hits the referee or one of the assistant
referees or a player or team offi cial, the referee may allow the match
to continue, suspend play or abandon the match depending on the
severity of the incident. He must, in all cases, report the incident(s) to
the appropriate authorities.

The referee has the power to show yellow or red cards during the
half-time interval and after the match has fi nished as well as during
extra time and kicks from the penalty mark, since the match remains
under his jurisdiction at these times.

If a referee is temporarily incapacitated for any reason, play may continue
under the supervision of the assistant referees until the ball next goes
out of play.

If a spectator blows a whistle and the referee considers the whistle
interfered with play (e.g. a player picks up the ball with his hands,
assuming that play has been stopped), the referee must stop the
match and restart the play with a dropped ball from the position of
the ball when play was stopped, unless play was stopped inside the
goal area, in which case the referee drops the ball on the goal area
line parallel to the goal line at the point nearest to where the ball was
located when play was stopped.

LAW 5 – THE REFEREE

Advantage

The referee may play advantage whenever an infringement or offence
occurs.

The referee should consider the following circumstances in deciding
whether to apply the advantage or stop play:
• the severity of the offence: if the infringement warrants an expulsion,

the referee must stop play and send off the player unless there is a
subsequent opportunity to score a goal

• the position where the offence was committed: the closer to the

opponent’s goal, the more effective it can be

• the chances of an immediate, dangerous attack on the opponents’

goal

• the atmosphere of the match

The decision to penalise the original offence must be taken within a
few seconds.

If the offence warrants a caution, it must be issued at the next stoppage.
However, unless there is a clear advantage, it is recommended that the
referee stops play and cautions the player immediately. If the caution is
NOT issued at the next stoppage, it cannot be shown later.

Injured players

The referee must adhere to the following procedure when dealing
with injured players:
• play is allowed to continue until the ball is out of play if a player

is, in the opinion of the referee, only slightly injured

• play is stopped if, in the opinion of the referee, a player is seriously

injured

• after questioning the injured player, the referee may authorise one,

or at most two doctors, to enter the fi eld of play to assess the
injury and arrange the player’s safe and swift removal from the
fi eld of play

• the stretcher-bearers should enter the fi eld of play with a stretcher

at the same time as the doctors to allow the player to be removed
as quickly as possible

• the referee must ensure an injured player is safely removed from

the fi eld of play

• a player is not allowed to receive treatment on the fi eld of play
• any player bleeding from a wound must leave the fi eld of play. He

may not return until the referee is satisfi ed that the bleeding has
stopped. A player is not permitted to wear clothing with blood on
it

• as soon as the referee has authorised the doctors to enter the fi eld

of play, the player must leave the fi eld of play, either on a stretcher
or on foot. If a player does not comply, he must be cautioned for
unsporting behaviour

• an injured player may only return to the fi eld of play after the

match has restarted

• when the ball is in play, an injured player must re-enter the fi eld of

play from the touch line. When the ball is out of play, the injured
player may re-enter from any of the boundary lines

• irrespective of whether the ball is in play or not, only the referee is

authorised to allow an injured player to re-enter the fi eld of play

• the referee may give permission for an injured player to return to

the fi eld of play if an assistant referee or the fourth offi cial verifi es
that the player is ready

• if play has not otherwise been stopped for another reason, or if an

injury suffered by a player is not the result of a breach of the Laws
of the Game, the referee must restart play with a dropped ball
from the position of the ball when play was stopped, unless play
was stopped inside the goal area, in which case the referee drops
the ball on the goal area line parallel to the goal line at the point
nearest to where the ball was located when play was stopped

• the referee must allow for the full amount of time lost through

injury to be played at the end of each period of play

• once the referee has decided to issue a card to a player who is

injured and has to leave the fi eld of play for treatment, the referee
must issue the card before the player leaves the fi eld of play

Exceptions to this ruling are to be made only when:
• a goalkeeper is injured
• a goalkeeper and an outfi eld player have collided and need

immediate attention

• a severe injury has occurred, e.g. swallowed tongue, concussion,

broken leg

More than one offence occurring at the same time
• Offences committed by two players from the same team:

– the referee must punish the most serious offence when players

commit more than one offence at the same time

– play must be restarted according to the most serious offence

committed

• Offences committed by players from different teams:

– the referee must stop play and restart it with a dropped ball

from the position of the ball at the time of the stoppage, unless
play was stopped inside the goal area, in which case the referee
drops the ball on the goal area line parallel to the goal line at
the point nearest to where the ball was located when play was
stopped

GUIDELINES FOR REFEREES

Positioning with ball in play

Recommendations
• The play should be between the referee and the lead assistant

referee

• The lead assistant referee should be within the referee’s fi eld of

vision. The referee should use a wide diagonal system

• Staying towards the outside of the play makes it easier to keep play

and the lead assistant referee within the referee’s fi eld of vision

• The referee should be close enough to see play without interfering

with play

• “What needs to be seen” is not always in the vicinity of the ball.

The referee should also pay attention to:
–  aggressive individual player confrontations off the ball
–  possible offences in the area towards which play is heading
–  offences occurring after the ball is played away

Positioning in dead-ball situations

The best position is one from which the referee can make the right
decision. All recommendations about positioning are based on
probabilities and must be adjusted using specifi c information about
the teams, the players and events in the match up to that point.

The positions suggested in the following graphics are basic and
recommended to referees. The reference to a “zone” is intended
to emphasise that every recommended position is actually an area
within which the referee is most likely to optimise his effectiveness.
The zone may be larger, smaller or differently shaped depending on
circumstances at the moment in question.

Use of whistle

The

whistle

needed to:

• start play (1

, 2

half), after a goal

• stop

play:

–  for a free kick or penalty kick
–  if the match is suspended or abandoned
–  when a period of play has ended due to the expiration of time

• restart play at:

– free kicks when the wall is ordered back the appropriate distance
– penalty kicks

• restart play after it has been stopped due to:

– the issue of a yellow or red card for misconduct
– injury
– substitution

The whistle is NOT needed to:
• stop play for:

– a goal kick, corner kick or throw-in
– a goal

• restart play from:

– a free kick, goal kick, corner kick, throw-in

A whistle which is used too frequently unnecessarily will have less
impact when it is needed. When a discretionary whistle is needed to
start play, the referee should clearly announce to the players that the
restart may not occur until after that signal.

Body language

Body language is a tool that the referee uses to:
• help him control the match
• show authority and self-control

Body language is not:
• an explanation of a decision

REFEREE SIGNALS

Duties and responsibilities

The assistant referees help the referee to control the match in
accordance with the Laws of the Game. They also assist the referee in
all other matters involving the running of the match at the request and
direction of the referee. This commonly includes such matters as:
• inspecting the fi eld, the balls used and players’ equipment
• determining if problems with equipment or bleeding have been

resolved

• monitoring the substitution procedure
• maintaining back-up records of time, goals and misconduct

Positioning and team work

Kick-off

The assistant referees must be in line with the second last defender.

LAW 6 – THE ASSISTANT REFEREES

3. Goal kick

1. The assistant referees must check fi rst if the ball is inside the goal

area:
• if the ball is not placed correctly, the assistant referee must not

move from his position, make eye contact with the referee and
raise his fl ag

2. Once the ball is placed correctly inside the goal area, the assistant

referee must move to the edge of the penalty area to check that
the ball leaves the penalty area (ball in play) and that the attackers
are outside:
• if the second last defender takes the goal kick, the assistant

referee must move directly to the edge of the penalty area

3. Finally, the assistant referee must take a position to check the

offside line, which is a priority in any case

4. Goalkeeper releasing the ball

The assistant referees must take a position in line with the edge of the
penalty area and check that the goalkeeper does not touch the ball
with his hands outside the penalty area.

Once the goalkeeper has released the ball, the assistant referees must
take a position to check the offside line, which is a priority in any
case.

LAW 6 – THE ASSISTANT REFEREES

6. Kicks from the penalty mark

One assistant referee must be positioned at the intersection of the goal
line and the goal area. His main duty is to check if the ball crosses the
line:
• when it is clear that the ball has crossed the goal line, the assistant

referee must make eye contact with the referee without giving any
additional signal

• when a goal has been scored but it is not clear whether the ball

has crossed the line, the assistant referee must fi rst raise his fl ag
to attract the referee’s attention and then confi rm the goal

The other assistant referee must be situated in the centre circle to
control the remaining players from both teams.

LAW 6 – THE ASSISTANT REFEREES

When a goal has been scored but the ball appears still to be in play,
the assistant referee must fi rst raise his fl ag to attract the referee’s
attention then continue with the normal goal procedure of running
quickly 25-30 metres along the touch line towards the halfway line.

On occasions when the whole of the ball does not cross the goal line
and play continues as normal because a goal has not been scored,
the referee must make eye contact with the assistant referee and if
necessary give a discreet hand signal.

LAW 6 – THE ASSISTANT REFEREES

Gestures

As a general rule, the assistant referee must give no obvious hand
signals. However, in some instances, a discreet hand signal may give
valuable support to the referee. The hand signal should have a clear
meaning. The meaning should have been discussed and agreed upon
in the pre-match discussion.

Running technique

As a general rule, the assistant referee should face the pitch whilst
running. Side-to-side movement should be used for short distances.
This is especially important when judging offside and gives the assistant
referee a better line of vision.

Signal beep

Referees are reminded that the signal beep system is an additional
signal to be used only when necessary in order to gain the attention
of the referee.

Situations when the signal beep is useful include:
• offside
•  fouls (outside the view of the referee)
•  throw-in, corner kick or goal kick (tight decisions)
•  goal situations (tight decisions)

ASSISTANT REFEREE SIGNALS

Flag technique and team work

The assistant referee’s fl ag must always be visible to the referee, unfurled
and still whilst running.

When making a signal, the assistant referee must stop running, face
the fi eld of play, make eye contact with the referee and raise the fl ag
with deliberate (not hasty or exaggerated) motions. The fl ag should be
like an extension of the arm.

The assistant referees must raise the fl ag using the hand that will also
be used for the next signal in a sequence. If circumstances change and
the other hand must be used for the next signal, the assistant referee
should move his fl ag to the opposite hand below the waist.

Whenever the assistant referee signals that the ball is out of play, he
shall continue to signal until the referee acknowledges it.

Whenever the assistant referee signals for violent conduct and the signal
is not seen immediately:
• if play has been stopped for disciplinary action to be taken, the restart

must be in accordance with the Laws (free kick, penalty kick etc.)

• if play has already restarted, the referee may still take disciplinary

action but not penalise the offence with a free kick of penalty kick

Throw-in

When the ball crosses the touch line near to the assistant referee’s
position, he must make a direct signal to indicate the direction of the
throw-in.

When the ball crosses the touch line far from the assistant referee’s
position and the throw-in decision is an obvious one, the assistant
referee must also make a direct signal to indicate the direction of the
throw-in.

When the ball crosses the touch line far from the assistant referee’s
position but the ball appears still to be in play or if the assistant referee
is in any doubt, the assistant referee must raise his fl ag to inform the
referee that the ball is out of play, make eye contact with the referee
and follow the referee’s signal.

Corner kick / Goal kick

When the ball crosses the goal line near to the assistant referee’s
position, he must make a direct signal with his right hand (better line
of vision) to indicate whether it is a goal kick or a corner kick.

When the ball crosses the goal line near to the assistant referee’s
position but the ball appears still to be in play, the assistant referee
must fi rst raise his fl ag to inform the referee that the ball is out of play,
then indicate whether it is a goal kick or a corner kick.

When the ball crosses the goal line far from the assistant referee’s
position, the assistant referee must raise his fl ag to inform the referee
that the ball is out of play, make eye contact and follow the referee’s
decision. The assistant referee may also make a direct signal if the
decision is an obvious one.

Offside

The

fi rst action the assistant referee makes after an offside decision is

to raise his fl ag. He then uses his fl ag to indicate the area of the pitch
in which the offence occurred.

If the fl ag is not immediately seen by the referee, the assistant referee
must keep signalling until it has been acknowledged or the ball is
clearly in the control of the defending team.

The

fl ag must be raised using the right hand, giving the assistant

referee a better line of vision.

Substitution

When dealing with substitutions, the assistant referee must fi rst be
informed by the fourth offi cial. The assistant referee must then signal
to the referee at the next stoppage in the match. The assistant referee
does not need to move to the halfway line as the fourth offi cial carries
out the substitution procedure.

If there is no fourth offi cial, the assistant referee must assist with
substitution procedures. In this case, the referee must wait until the
assistant referee is back in position before restarting play.

ASSISTANT REFEREE SIGNALS

Fouls

The assistant referee must raise his fl ag when a foul or misconduct is
committed in his immediate vicinity or out of the referee’s vision. In
all other situations, he must wait and offer his opinion if it is required.
If this is the case, the assistant referee must report what he has seen
and heard and which players are involved to the referee.

Before signalling for an offence, the assistant referee must determine
that:
• the offence was out of the view of the referee or the referee’s view

was obstructed

• the referee would not have applied advantage if he had seen the

offence

When a foul or misconduct is committed, the assistant referee must:
• raise his fl ag with the same hand that will also be used for the

remainder of the signal, this gives the referee a clear indication as
to who was fouled

• make eye contact with the referee
• give his fl ag a slight wave back and forth (avoiding any excessive

or aggressive movement)

• use the electronic beep signal, if necessary

The assistant referee must use the “wait and see technique” in order
to allow play to continue and not raise his fl ag when the team against
which an offence has been committed will benefi t from the advantage.
In this case, it is very important for the assistant referee to make eye
contact with the referee.

Fouls outside the penalty area

When a foul is committed outside the penalty area (near the boundary
of the penalty area), the assistant referee should make eye contact
with the referee to see where the referee is positioned and what
action he has taken. The assistant referee must stand in line with the
penalty area and raise his fl ag if necessary.

In counter-attack situations, the assistant referee should be able to
give information such as whether or not a foul has been committed
and whether a foul was committed inside or outside the penalty area,
which is a priority in any case, and what disciplinary action must be
taken.

Fouls inside the penalty area

When a foul is committed inside the penalty area out of the vision of
the referee, especially if near to the assistant referee’s position, the
assistant referee must fi rst make eye contact with the referee to see
where the referee is positioned and what action he has taken. If the
referee has not taken any action, the assistant referee must raise his
fl ag and use the electronic beep signal and then visibly move down
the touch line towards the corner fl ag.

Mass

confrontation

In situations of mass confrontation, the nearest assistant referee may
enter the fi eld of play to assist the referee. The other assistant referee
must also observe and record details of the incident.

Consultation

When dealing with disciplinary issues, eye contact and a basic discreet
hand signal from the assistant referee to the referee may be enough
in some cases.

On occasions when direct consultation is required, the assistant referee
may advance 2-3 metres onto the fi eld of play if necessary. When
talking, the referee and assistant referee shall both turn to face the
pitch to avoid being heard by others.

LAW 7 – THE DURATION OF THE MATCH

Allowance for Time Lost

Many stoppages in play are entirely natural (e.g. throw-ins, goal kicks).
An allowance is to be made only when these delays are excessive.

The fourth offi cial indicates the minimum additional time decided by
the referee at the end of the fi nal minute of each period of play.

The announcement of the additional time does not indicate the exact
amount of time left in the match. The time may be increased if the
referee considers it appropriate but never reduced.

The referee must not compensate for a timekeeping error during the
fi rst half by increasing or reducing the length of the second half.

LAW 11 – OFFSIDE

Defi nitions

In the context of Law 11 – Offside, the following defi nitions apply:
• “nearer to his opponents’ goal line” means that any part of a

player’s head, body or feet is nearer to his opponents’ goal line
than both the ball and the second last opponent. The arms are not
included in this defi nition

• “interfering with play” means playing or touching the ball passed

or touched by a team-mate

• “interfering with an opponent” means preventing an opponent

from playing or being able to play the ball by clearly obstructing
the opponent’s line of vision or movements or making a gesture
or movement which, in the opinion of the referee, deceives or
distracts an opponent

• “gaining an advantage by being in that position” means playing

a ball that rebounds to him off a goalpost or the crossbar having
been in an offside position or playing a ball that rebounds to him
off an opponent having been in an offside position

100

LAW 11 – OFFSIDE

Infringements

When an offside offence occurs, the referee awards an indirect free
kick to be taken from the position of the offending player when the
ball was last played to him by one of his team-mates.

If a defending player steps behind his own goal line in order to place
an opponent in an offside position, the referee must allow play to
continue and caution the defender for deliberately leaving the fi eld
of play without the referee’s permission when the ball is next out of
play.

It is not an offence in itself for a player who is in an offside position
to step off the fi eld of play to show the referee that he is not involved
in active play. However, if the referee considers that he has left the
fi eld of play for tactical reasons and has gained an unfair advantage
by re-entering the fi eld of play, the player must be cautioned for
unsporting behaviour. The player needs to ask for the referee’s
permission to re-enter the fi eld of play.

If an attacking player remains stationary between the goalposts and
inside the goal net as the ball enters the goal, a goal must be awarded.
However, if the attacking player distracts an opponent, the goal must
be disallowed, the player cautioned for unsporting behaviour and play
restarted with a dropped ball from the position of the ball when play
was stopped, unless play was stopped inside the goal area, in which
case the referee drops the ball on the goal area line parallel to the goal
line at the point nearest to where the ball was located when play was
stopped.

101

An attacker

in an offside position

(A), not interfering with an opponent,

touches

the ball

The assistant referee must raise the fl ag when the player

touches the ball

An attacker

in an offside position

(A), not interfering with an opponent,

does

not touch the ball

The player cannot be penalised because he did not touch the ball.

Offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of
the ball

Movement of
the player

Interfering with play

(A)

Not offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of
the ball

Movement of
the player

Interfering with play

(A)

102

LAW 11 – OFFSIDE

An attacker

in an offside position

(A) runs towards the ball and a team-mate

in an onside position

(B) also runs towards the ball and plays it.

(A) cannot be penalised because he did not touch the ball.

A player

in an offside position

(A) may be penalised before playing or touching

the ball, if, in the opinion of the referee, no other team-mate in an onside position
has the opportunity to play the ball.

Not offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of
the ball

Movement of
the player

Interfering with play

(B)

(A)

Offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of
the ball

Movement of
the player

Interfering with play

103

An attacker

in an offside position

(1) runs towards the ball and

does not touch

the ball

The assistant referee must signal “

goal kick

”.

An attacker

in an offside position

(A) is obstructing the goalkeeper’s line of

vision. He must be penalised because he prevents an opponent from playing or
being able to play the ball.

Offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of
the ball

Movement of
the player

Interfering with an opponent

(A)

Goal kick

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of
the ball

Movement of
the player

Interfering with play

(2)

(1)

104

LAW 11 – OFFSIDE

An attacker

in an offside position

(A) is

not

obstructing the goalkeeper’s line of

vision or making a gesture or movement which deceives or distracts him.

An attacker

in an offside position

(A) runs towards the ball but he does not

prevent the opponent from playing or being able to play the ball.
(A) is

not

making any gesture or movement which deceives or distracts (B).

Not offside offence
Corner kick

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of
the ball

Movement of
the player

Interfering with an opponent

(A)

(B)

Not offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of
the ball

Movement of
the player

Interfering with an opponent

(A)

105

An attacker

in an offside position

(A) runs towards the ball preventing the

opponent (B) from playing or being able to play the ball.
(A) is making a gesture or movement which deceives or distracts (B).

The shot by a team-mate (A) rebounds from the goalkeeper to (B) who is penalised
for

playing the ball

having previously been

in an offside position

Offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of
the ball

Movement of
the player

Interfering with an opponent

(A)

(B)

Offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of
the ball

Movement of
the player

Gaining advantage

(B)

(A)

106

LAW 11 – OFFSIDE

The shot by a team-mate (A) rebounds from the goalkeeper. (B) is in an onside
position and plays the ball.
(C)

in an offside position

is not penalised because he did not gain an advantage

from being in that position because he did not touch the ball.

The shot by a team-mate (A) rebounds off an opponent to attacker (B) who is
penalised for

playing the ball

having previously been

in an offside position

Offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of
the ball

Movement of
the player

Gaining advantage

(B)

(A)

Not offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of
the ball

Movement of
the player

Gaining advantage

(C)

(A)

(B)

107

An attacker (C) is

in an offside position

, not interfering with an opponent, when

a team-mate (A) passes the ball to player (B1) in an onside position who runs
towards the opponents’ goal and passes the ball (B2) to team-mate (C).
Attacker (C) cannot be penalised because when the ball was passed to him, he
was

in an onside position

Not offside offence

Goalkeeper

Defender

Attacker

Referee

Movement of
the ball

Movement of
the player

Gaining advantage

(B2)

(A)

(B1)

(C)

108

LAW 12 – FOULS AND MISCONDUCT

Basic requirements for a foul

The following conditions must be met for an offence to be considered
a foul:
•  it must be committed by a player
•  it must occur on the fi eld of play
•  it must occur while the ball is in play

If the referee stops play due to an offence committed outside the fi eld
of play (when the ball is in play), play must be restarted with a dropped
ball from the position of the ball when play was stopped, unless play
was stopped inside the goal area, in which case the referee drops the
ball on the goal area line parallel to the goal line at the point nearest
to where the ball was located when play was stopped.

Careless, reckless, using excessive force

“Careless” means that the player has shown a lack of attention or
consideration when making a challenge or that he acted without
precaution.
• No further disciplinary sanction is needed if a foul is judged to be

careless

“Reckless” means that the player has acted with complete disregard
to the danger to, or consequences for, his opponent
• A player who plays in a reckless manner must be cautioned.

“Using excessive force” means that the player has far exceeded the
necessary use of force and is in danger of injuring his opponent.
• A player who uses excessive force must be sent off.

Charging an opponent

The act of charging is a challenge for space using physical contact
within playing distance of the ball without using arms or elbows.

It is an offence to charge an opponent:
•  in a careless manner
•  in a reckless manner
•  using excessive force

109

Holding an opponent

Holding an opponent includes the act of preventing him from moving
past or around using the hands, the arms or the body.

Referees are reminded to make an early intervention and to deal fi rmly
with holding offences especially inside the penalty area at corner kicks
and free kicks.

To deal with these situations:
• the referee must warn any player holding an opponent before the

ball is in play

• caution the player if the holding continues before the ball is in

play

• award a direct free kick or penalty kick and caution the player if it

happens once the ball is in play

If a defender starts holding an attacker outside the penalty area and
continues holding him inside the penalty area, the referee must award
a penalty kick.

Disciplinary

sanctions

• A caution for unsporting behaviour must be issued when a player

holds an opponent to prevent him gaining possession of the ball
or taking up an advantageous position

• A player must be sent off if he denies an obvious goal-scoring

opportunity by holding an opponent

• No further disciplinary action must be taken in other situations of

holding an opponent

Restart of play

• Direct free kick from the position where the offence occurred

(see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick) or a penalty kick if the offence
occurred inside the penalty area.

110

LAW 12 – FOULS AND MISCONDUCT

Handling the ball

Handling the ball involves a deliberate act of a player making contact
with the ball with his hand or arm. The referee must take the following
into consideration:
• the movement of the hand towards the ball (not the ball towards

the hand)

• the distance between the opponent and the ball (unexpected

ball)

• the position of the hand does not necessarily mean that there is

an infringement

• touching the ball with an object held in the hand (clothing,

shinguard etc.) counts as an infringement

• hitting the ball with a thrown object (boot, shinguard etc.) counts

as an infringement

Disciplinary

sanctions

There are circumstances when a caution for unsporting behaviour
is required when a player deliberately handles the ball, e.g. when a
player:
• deliberately and blatantly handles the ball to prevent an opponent

gaining possession

• attempts to score a goal by deliberately handling the ball

A player is sent off, however, if he prevents a goal or an obvious goal-
scoring opportunity by deliberately handling the ball. This punishment
arises not from the act of the player deliberately handling the ball but
from the unacceptable and unfair intervention that prevented a goal
being scored.

Restart of play

• Direct free kick from the position where the offence occurred

(see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick) or penalty kick

Outside his own penalty area, the goalkeeper has the same restrictions
on handling the ball as does any other player. Inside his own penalty
area, the goalkeeper cannot be guilty of a handling offence incurring a
direct free kick or any misconduct related to handling the ball. He can,
however, be guilty of several handling offences that incur an indirect
free kick.

111

Offences committed by goalkeepers

A goalkeeper is not permitted to keep control of the ball in his hands
for more than six seconds. A goalkeeper is considered to be in control
of the ball:
• while the ball is between his hands or between his hand and any

surface (e.g. ground, own body)

• while holding the ball in his outstretched open hand
• while in the act of bouncing it on the ground or tossing it into the air

When a goalkeeper has gained possession of the ball with his hands,
he cannot be challenged by an opponent.

A goalkeeper is not permitted to touch the ball with his hand inside
his own penalty area in the following circumstances:
• if he handles the ball again after it has been released from his

possession and has not touched any other player:
– the goalkeeper is considered to be in control of the ball by

touching it with any part of his hands or arms except if the ball
rebounds accidentally from him, for example, after he has made
a save

– possession of the ball includes the goalkeeper deliberately

parrying the ball

• if he touches the ball with his hands after it has been deliberately

kicked to him by a team-mate

• if he touches the ball with his hands after he has received it directly

from a throw-in taken by a team-mate

Restart of play

• Indirect free kick from the position where the offence occurred

(see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick)

112

LAW 12 – FOULS AND MISCONDUCT

Offences committed against goalkeepers

• It is an offence for a player to prevent a goalkeeper from releasing

the ball from his hands

• A player must be penalised for playing in a dangerous manner if

he kicks or attempts to kick the ball when the goalkeeper is in the
process of releasing it

• It is an offence to restrict the movement of the goalkeeper by

unfairly impeding him, e.g. at the taking of a corner kick

Playing in a dangerous manner

Playing in a dangerous manner is defi ned as any action that, while
trying to play the ball, threatens injury to someone (including the
player himself). It is committed with an opponent nearby and prevents
the opponent from playing the ball for fear of injury.

A scissors or bicycle kick is permissible provided that, in the opinion of
the referee, it is not dangerous to an opponent.

Playing in a dangerous manner involves no physical contact between
the players. If there is physical contact, the action becomes an offence
punishable with a direct free kick or penalty kick. In the case of physical
contact, the referee should carefully consider the high probability that
misconduct has also been committed.

Disciplinary

sanctions

• If a player plays in a dangerous manner in a “normal” challenge,

the referee should not take any disciplinary action. If the action is
made with obvious risk of injury, the referee should caution the
player

• If a player denies an obvious goal-scoring opportunity by playing

in a dangerous manner, the referee should send off the player

Restart of play

• Indirect free kick from the position where the offence occurred

(see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick)

• If there is contact, a different offence has been committed,

punishable by a direct free kick or penalty kick.

113

Impeding the progress of an opponent

Impeding the progress of an opponent means moving into the path
of the opponent to obstruct, block, slow down or force a change of
direction by an opponent when the ball is not within playing distance
of either player.

All players have a right to their position on the fi eld of play, being in
the way of an opponent is not the same as moving into the way of an
opponent.

Shielding the ball is permitted. A player who places himself between
an opponent and the ball for tactical reasons has not committed an
offence as long as the ball is kept within playing distance and the
player does not hold off the opponent with his arms or body. If the
ball is within playing distance, the player may be fairly charged by an
opponent.

Delaying the restart of play to issue a card

Once the referee has decided to issue a card, whether to caution or
send off a player, play must not be restarted until the sanction has
been administered.

114

LAW 12 – FOULS AND MISCONDUCT

Cautions for unsporting behaviour

There are different circumstances when a player must be cautioned
for unsporting behaviour, e.g. if a player:
• commits in a reckless manner one of the seven offences that incur

a direct free kick

• commits a foul for the tactical purpose of interfering with or breaking

up a promising attack

• holds an opponent for the tactical purpose of pulling the opponent

away from the ball or preventing the opponent from getting to the
ball

• handles the ball to prevent an opponent gaining possession or

developing an attack (other than the goalkeeper within his own
penalty area)

• handles the ball in an attempt to score a goal (irrespective of

whether or not the attempt is successful).

• attempts to deceive the referee by feigning injury or pretending to

have been fouled (simulation)

• changes places with the goalkeeper during play or without the

referee’s permission

• acts in a manner which shows a lack of respect for the game
• plays the ball when he is walking off the fi eld of play after being

granted permission to leave the fi eld of play

•  verbally distracts an opponent during play or at a restart
•  makes unauthorised marks on the fi eld of play
•  uses a deliberate trick while the ball is in play to pass the ball to

his own goalkeeper with his head, chest, knee etc. in order to
circumvent the Law, irrespective of whether the goalkeeper
touches the ball with his hands or not. The offence is committed
by the player in attempting to circumvent both the letter and the
spirit of Law 12 and play is restarted with an indirect free kick

• uses a deliberate trick to pass the ball to his own goalkeeper to

circumvent the Law while he is taking a free kick (after the player
is cautioned, the free kick must be retaken)

115

Celebration of a goal

While it is permissible for a player to demonstrate his joy when a goal
has been scored, the celebration must not be excessive.

Reasonable celebrations are allowed, but the practice of choreographed
celebrations is not to be encouraged when it results in excessive time-
wasting and referees are instructed to intervene in such cases.

A player must be cautioned if:
• in the opinion of the referee, he makes gestures which are

provocative, derisory or infl ammatory

• he climbs on to a perimeter fence to celebrate a goal being

scored

• he removes his shirt or covers his head with his shirt.

• he covers his head or face with a mask or other similar item

Leaving the fi eld of play to celebrate a goal is not a cautionable offence
in itself but it is essential that players return to the fi eld of play as soon
as possible.

Referees are expected to act in a preventative manner and to exercise
common sense in dealing with the celebration of a goal.

116

LAW 12 – FOULS AND MISCONDUCT

Showing dissent by word or action

A player who is guilty of dissent by protesting (verbally or non-verbally)
against a referee’s decision must be cautioned.

The captain of a team has no special status or privileges under
the Laws of the Game but he has a degree of responsibility for the
behaviour of his team.

Delaying the restart of play

Referees must caution players who delay the restart of play by tactics
such as:
• taking a free kick from the wrong position with the sole intention

of forcing the referee to order a retake

• appearing to take a throw-in but suddenly leaving it to one of his

team-mates to take

• kicking the ball away or carrying it away with the hands after the

referee has stopped play

•  excessively delaying the taking of a throw-in or free kick
•  delaying leaving the fi eld of play when being substituted
•  provoking a confrontation by deliberately touching the ball after

the referee has stopped play

Persistent infringement

Referees should be alert at all times to players who persistently infringe
the Laws. In particular, they must be aware that, even if a player commits
a number of different offences, he must still be cautioned for persistently
infringing the Laws.

There is no specifi c number of infringements which constitutes
“persistence” or the presence of a pattern – this is entirely a matter of
judgement and must be determined in the context of effective game
management.

117

Serious foul play

A player is guilty of serious foul play if he uses excessive force or
brutality against an opponent when challenging for the ball when it
is in play.

A tackle that endangers the safety of an opponent must be sanctioned
as serious foul play.

Any player who lunges at an opponent in challenging for the ball from
the front, from the side or from behind using one or both legs, with
excessive force and endangering the safety of an opponent is guilty
of serious foul play.

Advantage should not be applied in situations involving serious foul
play unless there is a clear subsequent opportunity to score a goal.
The referee shall send off the player guilty of serious foul play when
the ball is next out of play.

A player who is guilty of serious foul play should be sent off and play
is restarted with a direct free kick from the position where the offence
occurred (see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick) or a penalty kick (if the
offence occurred inside the offender’s penalty area).

118

LAW 12 – FOULS AND MISCONDUCT

Violent conduct

A player is guilty of violent conduct if he uses excessive force or
brutality against an opponent when not challenging for the ball.

He is also guilty of violent conduct if he uses excessive force or brutality
against a team-mate, spectator, match offi cial or any other person.

Violent conduct may occur either on the fi eld of play or outside its
boundaries, whether the ball is in play or not.

Advantage should not be applied in situations involving violent
conduct unless there is a clear subsequent opportunity to score a goal.
The referee must send off the player guilty of violent conduct when
the ball is next out of play.

Referees are reminded that violent conduct often leads to mass
confrontation, therefore they must try to avert this with active
intervention.

A player, substitute or substituted player who is guilty of violent
conduct must be sent off.

119

Restart of play

• If the ball is out of play, play is restarted according to the previous

decision

• If the ball is in play and the offence occurred outside the fi eld of

play:
– if the player is already off the fi eld of play and commits the

offence, play is restarted with a dropped ball from the position
in which the ball was located when play was stopped, unless
play was stopped inside the goal area, in which case the referee
drops the ball on the goal area line parallel to the goal line at
the point nearest to where the ball was located when play was
stopped

– if the player leaves the fi eld of play to commit the offence, play

is restarted with an indirect free kick from the position in which
the ball was located when play was stopped (see Law 13 –
Position of Free Kick)

• If the ball is in play and a player commits an offence inside the fi eld

of play:
– against an opponent, play is restarted with a direct free kick

from the position where the offence occurred (see Law 13 –
Position of Free Kick) or a penalty kick (if inside the offending
player’s own penalty area)

– against a team-mate, play is restarted with an indirect free kick

from the position where the offence occurred (see Law 13 –
Position of Free Kick)

– against a substitute or substituted player, play is restarted with

an indirect free kick from the position in which the ball was
located when play was stopped (see Law 13 – Position of Free
Kick)

– against the referee or an assistant referee, play is restarted

with an indirect free kick from the position where the offence
occurred (see Law 13 – Position of Free Kick)

– against another person, play is restarted with a dropped ball from

the position in which the ball was located when play was
stopped, unless play was stopped inside the goal area, in which
case the referee drops the ball on the goal area line parallel to
the goal line at the point nearest to where the ball was located
when play was stopped

120

Offences where an object (or the ball) is thrown

If while the ball is in play, a player, substitute or substituted player
throws an object at an opponent or other person in a reckless
manner, the referee shall stop play and caution the player, substitute
or substituted player.

If while the ball is in play, a player, substitute or substituted player
throws an object at an opponent or other person using excessive
force, the referee shall stop play and send off the player, substitute or
substituted player for violent conduct.

Restart of play

• If a player standing inside his own penalty area throws an object

at an opponent standing outside the penalty area, the referee
restarts play with a direct free kick to the opponents’ team taken
from the position where the object struck or would have struck
the opponent

• If a player standing outside his own penalty area throws an object

at an opponent standing inside the penalty area, the referee
restarts play with a penalty kick

• If a player standing inside the fi eld of play throws an object at any

person standing outside the fi eld of play, the referee restarts play
with an indirect free kick, taken from the position in which the ball
was located when play was stopped (see Law 13 – Position of Free
Kick)

• If a player standing outside the fi eld of play throws an object at

an opponent standing inside the fi eld of play, the referee restarts
play with a direct free kick to the opponents’ team, taken from
the position where the object struck or would have struck the
opponent or with a penalty kick (if inside the offending player’s
own penalty area)

• If a substitute or substituted player standing outside the fi eld of

play throws an object at an opponent standing inside the fi eld
of play, the referee restarts play with an indirect free kick to the
opposing team, taken from the position in which the ball was
located when play was stopped (see Law 13 – Position of Free
Kick)

LAW 12 – FOULS AND MISCONDUCT

121

Denying a goal or a goal-scoring opportunity

There are two sending-off offences that deal with denying an opponent
an obvious opportunity to score a goal. It is not necessary for the offence
to occur inside the penalty area.

If the referee applies advantage during an obvious goal-scoring
opportunity and a goal is scored directly, despite the opponent’s
handling the ball or fouling an opponent, the player cannot be sent
off but he may still be cautioned.

Referees should consider the following circumstances when deciding
whether to send off a player for denying a goal or an obvious goal-
scoring opportunity:
•  the distance between the offence and the goal
•  the likelihood of keeping or gaining control of the ball
•  the direction of the play
•  the location and number of defenders
•  the offence which denies an opponent an obvious goal-scoring

opportunity may be an offence that incurs a direct free kick or an
indirect free kick

122

LAW 13 – FREE KICKS

Procedure

The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves.

A free kick can be taken by lifting the ball with a foot or both feet
simultaneously.

Feinting to take a free kick to confuse opponents is permitted as part
of football. However, if in the opinion of the referee, the feinting
is considered an act of unsporting behaviour, the player must be
cautioned.

If a player, while correctly taking a free kick, intentionally kicks the
ball at an opponent in order to play the ball again but neither in a
careless nor a reckless manner nor using excessive force, the referee
must allow play to continue.

An indirect free kick must be retaken if the referee fails to raise his arm
to indicate that the kick is indirect and the ball is kicked directly into
the goal. The initial indirect free kick is not nullifi ed by the referee’s
mistake.

Distance

If a player decides to take a free kick quickly and an opponent who
is less than 9.15 m from the ball intercepts it, the referee must allow
play to continue.

If a player decides to take a free kick quickly and an opponent who
is near the ball deliberately prevents him taking the kick, the referee
must caution the player for delaying the restart of play.

If, when a free kick is taken by the defending team from inside its
own penalty area, one or more opponents remain inside the penalty
area because the defender decides to take the kick quickly and the
opponents did not have time to leave the penalty area, the referee
must allow play to continue.

123

LAW 14 – THE PENALTY KICK

Procedure

Feinting to take a penalty kick to confuse opponents is permitted as
part of football. However, if, in the opinion of the referee, the feinting
is considered an act of unsporting behaviour, the player must be
cautioned.

Preparing for the penalty kick

The referee must confi rm the following requirements before the penalty
kick is taken:
•  the kicker is identifi ed
•  the ball is properly placed on the penalty mark
•  the goalkeeper is on the goal line between the goal posts and

facing the kicker

• the team-mates of the kicker and the goalkeeper are:

–  outside the penalty area
–  outside the penalty arc
–  behind the ball

124

LAW 14 – THE PENALTY KICK

Infringements – After the whistle and before the ball is in play

Outcome of the kick

Infringement

for encroachment

Goal

No goal

Attacking player

Penalty is retaken

Indirect free kick

Defending player

Goal

Penalty is retaken

Both

Penalty is retaken

125

LAW 15 – THE THROW-IN

Procedures – Infringements

Referees are reminded that opponents may be no closer than 2 metres
from the point at which the throw-in is taken. Where necessary, the
referee must warn any player within this distance before the throw-in
is taken and caution the player if he subsequently fails to retreat to
the correct distance. Play is restarted with a throw-in.

If a player, while correctly taking a throw-in, intentionally throws the
ball at an opponent in order to play the ball again but neither in a
careless nor a reckless manner nor using excessive force, the referee
must allow play to continue.

If the ball enters the opponents’ goal directly from a throw-in, the
referee must award a goal kick. If the ball enters the thrower’s own
goal directly from a throw-in, the referee must award a corner kick.

If the ball touches the ground before entering the fi eld of play, the
throw-in is retaken by the same team from the same position provided
that it was taken in line with the correct procedure. If the throw-in
is not taken in line with the correct procedure, it is retaken by the
opposing team.

126

LAW 16 – THE GOAL KICK

Procedures – Infringements

If a player who has taken a goal kick correctly deliberately plays the
ball a second time when the ball has left the penalty area before
another player has touched it, an indirect free kick is awarded to the
opposing team in the position where the second touch occurred (see
Law 13 – Position of Free Kick). However, if the player touches the
ball with his hand, he must be penalised with a direct free kick and a
disciplinary sanction if required.

If an opponent enters the penalty area before the ball is in play and is
fouled by a defender, the goal kick is retaken and the defender may
be cautioned or sent off depending on the nature of the offence.

127

LAW 17 – THE CORNER KICK

Procedures – Infringements

Referees are reminded that opponents must remain at least 9.15 m
(10 yds) from the corner arc until the ball is in play (the optional marks
off the fi eld of play may be used for assistance). Where necessary, the
referee must warn any player within this distance before the corner
kick is taken and caution the player if he subsequently fails to retreat
to the correct distance.

If the kicker touches the ball a second time before it has touched
another player, an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing
team in the position where the second touch occurred (see Law 13 –
Position of Free Kick).

If a player, while correctly taking a corner kick, intentionally kicks the
ball at an opponent in order to play the ball again but neither in a
careless nor a reckless manner nor using excessive force, the referee
must allow play to continue.

The ball must be placed inside the corner arc and is in play when it is
kicked, therefore the ball does not need to leave the corner arc to be
in play.

The diagram shows some correct and incorrect positions.

CORRECT

INCORRECT

128

PROCEDURES TO DETERMINE THE WINNER OF A MATCH OR HOME-AND-AWAY

Kicks from the penalty mark

Procedure

• The kicks from the penalty mark are not part of the match
• The penalty area where the kicks from the penalty marks are taking

place may be changed only if the goal or the playing surface becomes
unusable

• Once all eligible players have taken a kick from the penalty mark,

the same sequence does not have to be followed as in the fi rst
round of kicks

• Each team is responsible for selecting the players from those on

the fi eld of play at the end of the match and the order in which
they will take the kicks

• A player other than the goalkeeper who is injured may not be

substituted during the taking of kicks from the penalty mark

• If the goalkeeper is sent off during the taking of kicks from the

penalty mark, he must be replaced by a player who fi nished the
match

• A player, substitute or substituted player may be cautioned or sent

off during the taking of kicks from the penalty mark

• The referee must not abandon the match if a team is reduced to

fewer than 7 players during the taking of kicks from the penalty
mark

• If a player is injured or sent off during the taking of kicks from the

penalty mark and the team has one player less, the referee should
not reduce the number of players taking kicks for the other team.
An equal number of players from each team is required only at the
start of the taking of kicks from the penalty mark

129

RULES OF THE INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION BOARD

(Approved by the International Football Association Board – February 1993)

Name and Constitution

The title of the Board shall be the International Football Association
Board. The Football Association (England), The Scottish Football
Association, The Football Association of Wales, The Irish Football
Association and the Fédération Internationale de Football Association
(FIFA), hereafter called associations, shall constitute the Board and each
shall be entitled to be represented by four delegates.

Objects

The objects of the Board shall be to discuss and decide proposed
alterations to the Laws of the Game and such other matters affecting
association football as required to be referred to the Board after
consideration by the Annual General Meetings or other appropriate
meetings of the associations forming the Board or confederations or
member associations.

130

RULES OF THE INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION BOARD

Meetings of the Board

The Board shall meet bi-annually. The Annual General Meeting shall
take place in the month of February or March as agreed.

The Annual Business Meeting shall take place in the month of
September or October, as agreed. The date and venue of both the
Annual General Meeting and the Annual Business Meeting shall be
decided at the previous Annual General Meeting of the Board.

In each current year, both the Annual General Meeting and the
Annual Business Meeting shall be hosted by the same member
association.

A representative of the host association shall preside. The responsibility
for hosting both meetings shall be passed in rotation to each
association.

Annual General Meeting

The Annual General Meeting is authorised to discuss and decide on
proposed alterations to the Laws of the Game and other relevant
matters affecting association football that fall within the remit of the
Board.

Annual Business Meeting

The Annual Business Meeting shall take place in the month of
September or October, as agreed. The meeting shall have the authority
to consider general business submitted to the Board. It may provide
decisions on such items but the Annual Business Meeting shall not
have the authority to alter the Laws of the Game.

131

Procedures

Annual General Meeting

Each association shall forward in writing, not later than 1 December,
to the secretary of the association hosting the meeting, suggestions
or proposed alterations to the Laws of the Game, requests for
experimentation to the Laws of the Game and other items for
discussion, which shall be printed and distributed not later than
14 December. Any amendments to such proposed alterations must be
submitted in writing to the secretary of the host association not later
than 14 January, and such proposals and amendments shall be printed
and distributed to the associations for consideration not later than
1 February.

Annual Business Meeting

Each association shall forward in writing to the secretary of the host
association, at least four weeks before the date of the meeting, any
proposals, requests for experimentation regarding the Laws of the
Game and other items for discussion.

The agenda and relevant papers shall be distributed to all member
associations of the Board two weeks before the meeting.

Any confederation or other member association of FIFA may forward
in writing to the General Secretary of FIFA, proposals, requests or items
for discussion in good time to ensure that they may be considered
by FIFA and, if acceptable, forwarded to the secretary of the host
association at least four weeks before the meeting.

132

RULES OF THE INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION BOARD

Minutes

The minutes of the meeting shall be recorded by the secretary of the
host association and shall be reported in the offi cial Minute Book,
which shall be forwarded to the association next in rotation before
the fi rst day of February ensuing.

Quorum and Voting Powers

The business of a meeting shall not be proceeded unless four
associations, one of which shall be FIFA, are represented. FIFA shall
have four votes on behalf of all its affi liated member associations. The
other associations of the IFAB shall each have one vote. For a proposal
to succeed, it must receive the support of at least three-quarters of
those present and entitled to vote.

Alterations to the Laws of the Game

No alterations shall be made to the Laws of the Game except in the
Annual General Meeting of the Board and then only if agreed by at
least three-quarters of those present and entitled to vote.

Special Meetings

The association hosting the Board meetings for the current year* shall,
on receiving a written requisition signed by FIFA or by any two of the
other member associations, accompanied by a copy of the proposals
to be submitted, call a special meeting of the Board. Such special
meetings shall be held within twenty-eight days of the requisition
and the associations forming the Board shall receive twenty-one days’
notice together with a copy of the proposals.

133

Decisions of the Board

The decisions of the Annual Business Meeting of the Board shall be
effective from the date of the meeting, unless agreed otherwise.

The decisions of the Annual General Meeting of the Board regarding
changes to the Laws of the Game shall be binding on confederations
and member associations as from 1 July following each Annual General
Meeting of the Board but confederations or member associations whose
current season has not ended by 1 July may delay the introduction of
the adopted alterations to the Laws of the Game for their competitions
until the beginning of their next season. No alteration to the Laws of
the Game shall be made by any confederation or member association
unless it has been passed by the Board.**

* The current year shall be understood to commence on the day

following the previous Annual General Meeting.

** It was agreed that for international matches any such decisions

would be effective from 1 July following the Annual General
Meeting of the Board at which they were reached.