Laws of the Game 2003 ok · The Football Association The Scottish Football Association The Football...

1

July 2003

Authorised by the International Football Association Board

This booklet may not be reproduced or translated in wholeor in part in any manner without the permission of FIFA

Published byFédération Internationale de Football Association11 Hitzigweg, 8030 Zurich, Switzerland

Laws of the Game

2 3

FEDERATION INTERNATIONALE DE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION

INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION BOARD (IFAB)

President: Joseph S. Blatter (Switzerland)

General Secretary: Urs Linsi (Switzerland)

Address: FIFA House, 11 Hitzigweg8030 Zurich, SwitzerlandTelephone: 41-1/384 9595Telefax: 41-1/384 9696Internet: www.fifa.com

Members: The Football AssociationThe Scottish Football AssociationThe Football Association of WalesIrish Football Association(1 vote each)

Fédération Internationalede Football Association (FIFA)(4 votes)

Next meeting of the London, EnglandInternational F. A. Board: 28th February 2004

Notes on The Laws of the GameModificationsSubject to the agreement of the national association concerned and provided the principles ofthese Laws are maintained, the Laws may be modified in their application for matches for playersof under 16 years of age, for women footballers, for veteran footballers (over 35 years) and forplayers with disabilities.

Any or all of the following modifications are permissible:

� size of the field 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 modifications are only allowed with the consent of the International Football Associa-tion Board.

Male and FemaleReferences to the male gender in the Laws of the Game in respect of referees, assistant referees,players and officials are for simplification and apply to both males and females.

KeyThroughout the Laws of the Game the following symbols are used:

* Unless covered by the Special Circumstances listed in Law 8 – The Start and Restart of Play

Single line indicates new Law changes

4 5

LAWS OF THE GAME

Contents

LAW PAGE

1 THE FIELD OF PLAY _______________ 6

2 THE BALL ________________________ 11

3 THE NUMBER OF PLAYERS _________ 13

4 THE PLAYERS’ EQUIPMENT ________ 15

5 THE REFEREE _____________________ 16

6 THE ASSISTANT REFEREES ________ 18

7 THE DURATION OF THE MATCH _____ 19

8 THE START AND RESTART OF PLAY _ 20

9 THE BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY ____ 22

10 THE METHOD OF SCORING ________ 23

11 OFFSIDE _________________________ 24

12 FOULS AND MISCONDUCT _________ 25

13 FREE KICKS ______________________ 28

14 THE PENALTY KICK ________________ 30

15 THE THROW-IN ___________________ 32

16 THE GOAL KICK __________________ 34

17 THE CORNER KICK ________________ 35

PROCEDURES TO DETERMINE THEWINNER OF A MATCH _____________ 36

THE TECHNICAL AREA _____________ 38

THE FOURTH OFFICIAL ____________ 39

REFEREE SIGNALS ________________ 40

ASSISTANT REFEREE SIGNALS _____ 41

LAW 11 ILLUSTRATIONS __________ 42

LAW 12 ILLUSTRATIONS __________ 55

ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS FORREFEREES, ASSISTANT REFEREESAND FOURTH OFFICIALS __________ 65

RULES OF THE INTERNATIONALFOOTBALL ASSOCIATION BOARD __ 70

6 7

7.32m (8yds)

2.44m(8ft)

Law 1 Law 1

LAW 1 – The Field of PlayDimensionsThe field of play must be rectangular. Thelength of the touch line must be greaterthan the length of the goal line.

Length: minimum 90 m (100 yds)maximum 120 m (130 yds)

Width: minimum 45 m (50 yds)maximum 90 m (100 yds)

International MatchesLength: minimum 100 m (110 yds)

maximum 110 m (120 yds)

Width: minimum 64 m (70 yds)maximum 75 m (80 yds)

Field MarkingsThe field of play is marked with lines. Theselines belong to the areas of which they areboundaries.

The two longer boundary lines are calledtouch lines. The two shorter lines are calledgoal lines.

All lines are not more than 12 cm (5 ins)wide.

The field of play is divided into two halves bya halfway line.

The centre mark is indicated at the midpointof the halfway line. A circle with a radius of9.15 m (10 yds) is marked around it.

The Goal AreaA goal area is defined at each end of the fieldas follows:

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

The Penalty AreaA penalty area is defined at each end of thefield as follows:

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

Within each penalty area a penalty markis made 11 m (12 yds) from the midpointbetween the goalposts and equidistant tothem. An arc of a circle with a radius of9.15 m (10 yds) from each penalty mark isdrawn outside the penalty area.

FlagpostsA flagpost, not less than 1.5 m (5 ft) high,with a non-pointed top and a flag is placed ateach corner.

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

The Corner ArcA quarter circle with a radius of 1 m (1 yd)from each corner flagpost is drawn inside thefield of play.

GoalsGoals must be placed on the centre of eachgoal line.

They consist of two upright posts equidistantfrom the corner flagposts and joined at thetop by a horizontal crossbar.

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

Both goalposts and the crossbar have thesame width and depth which do not exceed12 cm (5 ins). The goal lines are the samewidth as that of the goalposts and thecrossbar. Nets may be attached to the goalsand the ground behind the goal, providedthat they are properly supported and do notinterfere with the goalkeeper.

The goalposts and crossbars must be white.

SafetyGoals must be anchored securely to theground. Portable goals may only be used ifthey satisfy this requirement.

8 9

The Field of Play

Corner Flagpost

Metric Measurements

Imperial Measurements

Law 1 Law 1

10 11Law 1 Law 2

Decisions of the International F.A. Board

� Decision 1If the crossbar becomes displaced orbroken, play is stopped until it has beenrepaired or replaced in position. If a repairis not possible, the match is abandoned. Theuse of a rope to replace the crossbar is notpermitted. If the crossbar can be repaired,the match is restarted with a dropped ballat the place where the ball was located whenplay was stopped. * (see page 3)

� Decision 2Goalposts and crossbars must be made ofwood, metal or other approved material.Their shape may be square, rectangular,round or elliptical and they must not bedangerous to players.

� Decision 3No kind of commercial advertising, whetherreal or virtual, is permitted on the field ofplay and field equipment (including thegoal nets and the areas they enclose) fromthe time the teams enter the field of playuntil they have left it at half-time and fromthe time the teams re-enter the field of playuntil the end of the match. In particular, noadvertising material of any kind may bedisplayed on goals, nets, flagposts or theirflags. No extraneous equipment (cameras,microphones, etc.) may be attached to theseitems.

� Decision 4There shall be no advertising of any kindwithin the technical area or within onemetre from the touch line and outside thefield of play on the ground. Further, noadvertising shall be allowed in the areabetween the goal line and the goal nets.

� Decision 5The reproduction, whether real or virtual,of representative logos or emblems of FIFA,confederations, national associations,leagues, clubs or other bodies, is forbiddenon the field of play and field equipment(including the goal nets and the areas theyenclose) during playing time, as describedin Decision 3.

� Decision 6A mark may be made off the field of play,9.15 metres (10 yds) from the corner arcand at right angles to the goal lines toensure that this distance is observed when acorner kick is being taken.

LAW 2 – The BallQualities and MeasurementsThe 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) in weight andnot less than 410 g (14 oz) at the start of thematch

� of a pressure equal to 0.6 – 1.1 atmosphere(600 – 1100 g/cm2) at sea level (8.5 lbs/sq in15.6 lbs/sq in)

Replacement of a Defective BallIf the ball bursts or becomes defectiveduring the course of a match:

� the match is stopped

� the match is restarted by dropping thereplacement ball at the place where the firstball became defective * (see page 3)

If the ball bursts or becomes defectivewhilst not in play at a kick-off, goal kick,corner kick, free kick, penalty kick orthrow-in:

� the match is restarted accordingly

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

1312

INTERNATIONAL MATCHBALLSTANDARD


� Decision 1In competition matches, only footballswhich meet the minimum technicalrequirements stipulated in Law 2 arepermitted for use.

In FIFA competition matches, and incompetition matches organised under theauspices of the confederations, acceptanceof a football for use is conditional upon thefootball bearing one of the following threedesignations:

the official “FIFA APPROVED” logo,orthe official “FIFA INSPECTED” logo,orthe reference “INTERNATIONAL MATCH-BALL STANDARD”

Such a designation on a football indicatesthat it has been tested officially and foundto be in compliance with specific technicalrequirements, different for each categoryand additional to the minimum specifica-tions stipulated in Law 2. The list of the

additional requirements specific to each ofthe respective categories must be approvedby the International F.A. Board. Theinstitutes conducting the tests are subject tothe approval of FIFA.

National association competitions mayrequire the use of balls bearing any one ofthese three designations.

In all other matches the ball used mustsatisfy the requirements of Law 2.

� Decision 2In FIFA competition matches and incompetition matches organised under theauspices of the confederations and nationalassociations, no kind of commercialadvertising on the ball is permitted, exceptfor the emblem of the competition, thecompetition organiser and the authorisedtrademark of the manufacturer. Thecompetition regulations may restrict thesize and number of such markings.

Law 2 Law 3

LAW 3 – The Number of Players

PlayersA match is played by two teams, eachconsisting of not more than eleven players,one of whom is the goalkeeper. A match maynot start if either team consists of fewer thanseven players.

Official CompetitionsUp to a maximum of three substitutes maybe used in any match played in an officialcompetition organised under the auspices ofFIFA, the confederations or the nationalassociations.

The rules of the competition must state howmany substitutes may be nominated, fromthree up to a maximum of seven.

Other MatchesIn other matches, substitutes may be used,provided that:

� the teams concerned reach agreement on amaximum number

� the referee is informed before the match

If the referee is not informed, or if noagreement is reached before the start of thematch, no more than three substitutes areallowed.

All MatchesIn all matches the names of the substitutesmust be given to the referee prior to the startof the match. Substitutes not so named maynot take part in the match.

Substitution ProcedureTo replace a player by a substitute, thefollowing conditions must be observed:

� the referee is informed before any proposedsubstitution is made

� a substitute only enters the field of play afterthe player being replaced has left and afterreceiving a signal from the referee

� a substitute only enters the field of play atthe halfway line and during a stoppage in thematch

� a substitution is completed when a substituteenters the field of play

� from that moment, the substitute becomes aplayer and the player he has replaced ceases tobe a player

� a player who has been replaced takes nofurther part in the match

� all substitutes are subject to the authorityand jurisdiction of the referee, whether calledupon to play or not

Changing the GoalkeeperAny of the other players may change placeswith the goalkeeper, provided that:

� the referee is informed before the change ismade

� the change is made during a stoppage in thematch

15Law 3 Law 4

14

Infringements/SanctionsIf a substitute enters the field of playwithout the referee’s permission:

� play is stopped

� the substitute is cautioned, shown the yellowcard and required to leave the field of play

� play is restarted with a dropped ball at theplace it was located when play was stopped *(see page 3)

If a player changes places with the goal-keeper without the referee’s permissionbefore the change is made:

� play continues

� the players concerned are cautioned andshown the yellow card when the ball is next outof play

For any other infringements of this Law:

� the players concerned arecautioned and shown the yellowcard

Restart of PlayIf play is stopped by the referee to administera caution:

� the match is restarted by an indirect freekick, to be taken by a player of the opposingteam from the place where the ball was locatedwhen play was stopped * (see page 3)

Players and Substitutes Sent OffA player who has been sent off before thekick-off may be replaced only by one of thenamed substitutes.

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


� Decision 1Subject to the overriding conditions of Law3, the minimum number of players in ateam is left to the discretion of nationalassociations. The Board is of the opinion,however, that a match should not continueif there are fewer than seven players ineither team.

� Decision 2A team official may convey tactical instruc-tions to the players during the match andhe must return to his position after givingthese instructions. All officials must remainwithin the confines of the technical area,where such an area is provided, and theymust behave in a responsible manner.

LAW 4 – The Players’ EquipmentSafetyA player must not use equipment or wearanything which is dangerous to himself oranother player (including any kind ofjewellery).

Basic EquipmentThe basic compulsory equipment of a playeris:

� a jersey or shirt

� shorts – if thermal undershorts are worn,they are of the same main colour as the shorts

� stockings

� shinguards

� footwear

Shinguards� are covered entirely by the stockings

� are made of a suitable material (rubber,plastic, or similar substances)

� provide a reasonable degree of protection

Goalkeepers� each goalkeeperwears colours whichdistinguish him fromthe other players, thereferee and theassistant referees

Infringements/Sanctions

For any infringement of this Law:

� play need not be stopped

� the player at fault is instructed by the refereeto leave the field of play to correct his equip-ment

� the player leaves the field of play when theball next ceases to be in play, unless he hasalready corrected his equipment

� any player required to leave the field of playto correct his equipment does not re-enterwithout the referee’s permission

� the referee checks that the player’s equipmentis correct before allowing him to re-enter thefield of play

� the player is only allowed to re-enter the fieldof play when the ball is out of play

A player who has been required to leave thefield of play because of an infringement ofthis Law and who enters (or re-enters) thefield of play without the referee’s permissionis cautioned and shown the yellow card.

Restart of PlayIf play is stopped by the referee to administera caution:

� the match is restarted by an indirect free kicktaken by a player of the opposing side, from theplace where the ball was located when thereferee stopped the match * (see page 3)


� Decision 1• Players must not reveal undershirts,which contain slogans or advertising.

A player removing his jersey to revealslogans or advertising will be sanctionedby the competition organiser.

• Jerseys must have sleeves.

15Law 4

1716Law 5Law 5

LAW 5 – The RefereeThe Authority of the RefereeEach match is controlled by a referee who hasfull authority to enforce the Laws of theGame in connection with the match to whichhe has been appointed.

Powers and Duties

The Referee:� enforces the Laws of the Game

� controls the match in co-operation with theassistant referees and, where applicable, withthe fourth official

� ensures that any ball used meets therequirements of Law 2

� ensures that the players’ equipment meets therequirements of Law 4

� acts as timekeeper and keeps a record of thematch

� stops, suspends or terminates the match, athis discretion, for any infringements of theLaws

� stops, suspends or terminates the matchbecause of outside interference of any kind

� stops the match if, in his opinion, a player isseriously injured and ensures that he isremoved from the field of play. An injuredplayer may only return to the field of play afterthe match has restarted

� allows play to continue until the ball is out ofplay if a player is, in his opinion, only slightlyinjured

� ensures that any player bleeding from awound leaves the field of play. The player mayonly return on receiving a signal from thereferee, who must be satisfied that the bleedinghas stopped

� allows play to continue when the teamagainst which an offence has been committedwill benefit from such an advantage andpenalises the original offence if the anticipatedadvantage does not ensue at that time

� punishes the more serious offence when aplayer commits more than one offence at thesame time

� takes disciplinary action against playersguilty of cautionable and sending-off offences.He is not obliged to take this action immedi-ately but must do so when the ball next goesout of play

� takes action against team officials who fail toconduct themselves in a responsible mannerand may at his discretion, expel them from thefield of play and its immediate surrounds

� acts on the advice of assistant refereesregarding incidents which he has not seen

� ensures that no unauthorised persons enterthe field of play

� restarts the match after it has been stopped

� provides the appropriate authorities with amatch report which includes information onany disciplinary action taken against players,and/or team officials and any other incidentswhich occurred before, during or after thematch

Decisions of the RefereeThe decisions of the referee regarding factsconnected with play are final.

The referee may only change a decision onrealising that it is incorrect or, at his discre-tion, on the advice of an assistant referee,provided that he has not restarted play.


� Decision 1A referee (or where applicable, an assistantreferee or fourth official) is not held liablefor:

any kind of injury suffered by a player,official 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 anydecision which he may take under the termsof the Laws of the Game or in respect of thenormal procedures required to hold, playand control a match.

This may include:

� a decision that the condition of the field ofplay or its surrounds or that the weatherconditions are such as to allow or not toallow a match to take place

� a decision to abandon a match forwhatever reason

� a decision as to the condition of thefixtures or equipment used during a matchincluding the goalposts, crossbar, flagpostsand the ball

� a decision to stop or not to stop a matchdue to spectator interference or any problemin the spectator area

� a decision to stop or not to stop play toallow an injured player to be removed fromthe field of play for treatment

� a decision to request or insist that aninjured player be removed from the field ofplay for treatment

� a decision to allow or not to allow a playerto wear certain apparel or equipment

� a decision (in so far as this may be hisresponsibility) to allow or not to allow anypersons (including team or stadium officials,security officers, photographers or othermedia representatives) to be present in thevicinity of the field of play

� any other decision which he may take inaccordance with the Laws of the Game or inconformity with his duties under the termsof FIFA, confederation, national associationor league rules or regulations under whichthe match is played

� Decision 2In tournaments or competitions where afourth official is appointed, his role andduties must be in accordance with theguidelines approved by the InternationalF.A. Board.

� Decision 3Facts connected with play shall includewhether a goal is scored or not and theresult of the match.

1918

LAW 6 – The Assistant Referees

DutiesTwo assistant referees are appointed whoseduties, subject to the decision of the referee,are to indicate:

� when the whole of the ball has passed out ofthe field of play

� which side is entitled to a corner kick, goalkick or throw-in

� when a player may be penalised for being inan offside position

� when a substitution is requested

� when misconduct or any other incident hasoccurred out of the view of the referee

� when offenceshave been commit-ted whenever theassistants are closerto the action thanthe referee (thisincludes, in particu-lar circumstances,offences committed inthe penalty area)

� whether, at penaltykicks, the goalkeeper hasmoved forward before theball has been kicked and ifthe ball has crossed the line

AssistanceThe assistant referees also assist the refereeto control the match in accordance with theLaws of the Game. In particular, they mayenter the field of play to help control the9.15m distance.

In the event of undue interference orimproper conduct, the referee will relievean assistant referee of his duties and makea report to the appropriate authorities.

LAW 7 – The Duration of the Match

Periods of PlayThe match lasts two equal periods of45 minutes, unless otherwise mutually agreedbetween the referee and the two participatingteams. Any agreement to alter the periodsof play (for example to reduce each half to40 minutes because of insufficient light) mustbe made before the start of play and mustcomply with competition rules.

Half-Time IntervalPlayers are entitled to an intervalat half-time.

The half-time interval must not exceed15 minutes.

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

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

Allowance for Time LostAllowance is made in either period for alltime lost through:

� substitution(s)

� assessment of injury to players

� removal of injured players from the field ofplay for treatment

� wasting time

� any other cause

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

Penalty KickIf a penalty kick has to be taken or retaken,the duration of either half is extended untilthe penalty kick is completed.

Extra TimeCompetition rules may provide for twofurther equal periods to be played. Theconditions of Law 8 will apply.

Abandoned MatchAn abandoned match is replayed unless thecompetition rules provide otherwise.

Law 6 Law 7

2120

LAW 8 – The Start and Restart of Play

Law 8 Law 8

PreliminariesA coin is tossed and the team which wins thetoss decides which goal it will attack in thefirst half of the match.

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

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

In the second half of the match the teamschange ends and attack the opposite goals.

Kick-offA kick-off is a way of starting or restartingplay:

� 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 thekick-off.

Procedure� all players are in their own half of the field

� the opponents of the team taking the kick-offare at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball untilit is in play

� the ball is stationary on the centre mark

� the referee gives a signal

� the ball is in play when it is kicked andmoves forward

� the kicker does not touch the ball a secondtime until it has touched another player

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

Infringements/SanctionsIf the kicker touches the ball a second timebefore it has touched another player:

� an indirect free kick is awarded to theopposing team to be taken from the place wherethe infringement occurred * (see page 3)

For any other infringement of the kick-offprocedure:

� the kick-off is retaken

Dropped BallA dropped ball is a way of restarting thematch after a temporary stoppage whichbecomes necessary, while the ball is in play,for any reason not mentioned elsewhere inthe Laws of the Game.

ProcedureThe referee drops the ball at the place whereit was located when play was stopped. *(see page 3)

Play restarts when the ball touches theground.

Infringements/SanctionsThe ball is dropped again:

� if it is touched by a player before it makescontact with the ground

� if the ball leaves the field of play after itmakes contact with the ground, without aplayer touching it

Special CircumstancesA free kick awarded to the defending teaminside its own goal area is taken from anypoint within the goal area.

An indirect free kick awarded to the attackingteam in its opponents’ goal area is taken fromthe goal area line parallel to the goal line atthe point nearest to where the infringementoccurred.

A dropped ball to restart the match after playhas been temporarily stopped inside the goalarea takes place on the goal area line parallelto the goal line at the point nearest to wherethe ball was located when play was stopped.

2322Law 9 Law 10

LAW 9 – The Ball In and Out of Play

Ball Out of PlayThe ball is out of play when:

� it has wholly crossed the goal line or touchline whether on the ground or in the air

� play has been stopped by the referee

Ball In PlayThe ball is in play at all other times,including when:

� it rebounds from a goalpost, crossbar orcorner flagpost and remains in the field of play

� it rebounds from either the referee or anassistant referee when they are on the field ofplay

LAW 10 – The Method of Scoring

Goal ScoredA goal is scored when the whole of the ballpasses over the goal line, between thegoalposts and under the crossbar, providedthat no infringement of the Laws of theGame has been committed previously by theteam scoring the goal.

Winning TeamThe team scoring the greater number of goalsduring a match is the winner. If both teamsscore an equal number of goals, or if no goalsare scored, the match is drawn.

Competition RulesFor matches ending in a draw, competitionrules may state provisions involving extratime, or other procedures approved by theInternational F.A. Board to determine thewinner of a match.

Ballreboundingfrom cornerflagpost, goal postor crossbar intofield of playis in play

Ball in play

Ball in play

Ball in play

Ball in play

Ball out of playNo goal

No goal

No goal

Goal

2524Law 11 Law 12

LAW 11 – Offside

Offside PositionIt is not an offence in itself to be in anoffside position.

A player is in an offside position if:

� he is nearer to his opponents’ goal line thanboth the ball and the second last opponent

A player is not in an offside position if:

� he is in his own half of the field of playor� he is level with the second last opponentor� he is level with the last two opponents

OffenceA player in an offside position is onlypenalised if, at the moment the ball touchesor is played by one of his team, he is, in theopinion of the referee, involved in active playby:

� interfering with playor

� interfering with an opponentor

� gaining an advantage by being in thatposition

No OffenceThere is no offside offence if a player receivesthe ball directly from:

� a goal kickor

� a throw-inor

� a corner kick

Infringements/SanctionsFor any offside offence, the referee awards anindirect free kick to the opposing team to betaken from the place where the infringementoccurred. * (see page 3)

LAW 12 – Fouls and MisconductFouls and misconduct are penalised asfollows:

Direct Free KickA direct free kick is awarded to the opposingteam if a player commits any of the follow-ing six offences in a manner considered bythe referee to be careless, reckless or usingexcessive 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

A direct free kick is also awarded to theopposing team if a player commits any ofthe following four offences:

� tackles an opponent to gain possession of theball, making contact with the opponent beforetouching the ball

� holds an opponent

� spits at an opponent

� handles the ball deliberately (except for thegoalkeeper within his own penalty area)

A direct free kick is taken from where theoffence occurred. * (see page 3)

Penalty KickA penalty kick is awarded if any of the aboveten offences is committed by a player insidehis own penalty area, irrespective of theposition of the ball, provided it is in play.

Indirect Free KickAn indirect free kick is awarded to theopposing team if a goalkeeper, inside hisown penalty area, commits any of thefollowing four offences:

� takes more than six seconds while controllingthe ball with his hands before releasing it fromhis possession

� touches the ball again with his hands after ithas been released from his possession and hasnot touched any other player

� touches the ball with his hands after it hasbeen deliberately kicked to him by a team-mate

� touches the ball with his hands after he hasreceived it directly from a throw-in taken by ateam-mate

An indirect free kick is also awarded to theopposing team if a player, in the opinion ofthe referee:

� plays in a dangerous manner

� impedes the progress of an opponent

� prevents the goalkeeper from releasing theball from his hands

� commits any other offence, not previouslymentioned in Law 12, for which play is stoppedto caution or dismiss a player

The indirect free kick is taken from wherethe offence occurred.*(see page 3)

1 1

2726Law 12

Disciplinary SanctionsOnly a player or substitute or substitutedplayer may be shown the red or yellow card.

Cautionable OffencesA player is cautioned and shown the yellowcard if he commits any of the followingseven offences:

1. is guilty of unsporting behaviour

2. shows dissent by word or action

3. persistently infringes the Laws of theGame

4. delays the restart of play

5. fails to respect the required distancewhen play is restarted with a corner kickor free kick

6. enters or re-enters the field of playwithout the referee’s permission

7. deliberately leaves the field of playwithout the referee’s permission

Law 12

Sending-Off OffencesA player is sent off and shown the red cardif he commits any of the following sevenoffences:

1. is guilty of serious foul play

2. is guilty of violent conduct

3. spits at an opponent or any other person

4. denies the opposing team a goal or anobvious goal-scoring opportunity bydeliberately handling the ball (this doesnot apply to a goalkeeper within his ownpenalty area)

5. denies an obvious goal-scoring opportu-nity to an opponent moving towards theplayer’s goal by an offence punishable bya free kick or a penalty kick

6. uses offensive or insulting or abusivelanguage and/or gestures

7. receives a second caution in the samematch

A player who has been sent off must leavethe vicinity of the field of play and thetechnical area.


� Decision 1A player who commits a cautionable orsending-off offence, either on or off thefield of play, whether directed towards anopponent, a team-mate, the referee, anassistant referee or any other person, isdisciplined according to the nature of theoffence committed.

� Decision 2The goalkeeper is considered to be incontrol of the ball by touching it with anypart of his hand or arms. Possession of theball includes the goalkeeper deliberatelyparrying the ball, but does not include thecircumstances where, in the opinion of thereferee, the ball rebounds accidentally fromthe goalkeeper, for example after he hasmade a save.

� Decision 3Subject to the terms of Law 12, a player maypass the ball to his own goalkeeper usinghis head or chest or knee, etc. If, however,in the opinion of the referee, a player uses adeliberate trick while the ball is in play inorder to circumvent the Law, the player is

guilty of unsporting behaviour. He iscautioned, shown the yellow card and anindirect free kick is awarded to the oppos-ing team from the place where the infringe-ment occurred. * (see page 3)

A player using a deliberate trick tocircumvent the Law while he is taking a freekick, is cautioned for unsporting behaviourand shown the yellow card. The free kick isretaken.

In such circumstances, it is irrelevantwhether the goalkeeper subsequentlytouches the ball with his hands or not. Theoffence is committed by the player inattempting to circumvent both the letterand the spirit of Law 12.

� Decision 4A tackle from behind, which endangers thesafety of an opponent, must be sanctionedas serious foul play.

� Decision 5Any simulating action anywhere on thefield, which is intended to deceive thereferee, must be sanctioned as unsportingbehaviour.

2928

LAW 13 – Free Kicks

Law 13 Law 13

Types of Free KicksFree kicks are either direct or indirect.

For both direct and indirect free kicks, theball must be stationary when the kick istaken and the kicker does not touch the balla second time until it has touched anotherplayer.

The Direct Free Kick� if a direct free kick is kicked directly into theopponents’ goal, a goal is awarded

� if a direct free kick is kicked directly into theteam’s own goal, a corner kick is awarded to theopposing team

The Indirect Free KickSignal

The referee indicates an indirect free kick byraising his arm above his head. He maintainshis arm in that position until the kick hasbeen taken and the ball has touched anotherplayer or goes out of play.

Ball Enters the Goal

A goal can be scored only if the ballsubsequently touches another player beforeit enters the goal.

� if an indirect free kick is kicked directly intothe opponents’ goal, a goal kick is awarded

� if an indirect free kick is kicked directly intothe team’s own goal, a corner kick is awarded tothe opposing team

Position of Free KickFree Kick Inside the Penalty Area

Direct or indirect free kick to the defendingteam:

� all opponents are at least 9.15 m (10 yds)from the ball

� all opponents remain outside the penaltyarea until the ball is in play

� the ball is in play when it is kicked directlybeyond the penalty area

� a free kick awarded in the goal area is takenfrom any point inside that area

Indirect free kick to the attacking team:

� all opponents are at least 9.15 m (10 yds)from the ball until it is in play, unless they areon their own goal line between the goalposts

� the ball is in play when it is kicked andmoves

� an indirect free kick awarded inside the goalarea is taken from that part of the goal arealine which runs parallel to the goal line, at thepoint nearest to where the infringementoccurred

Free Kick Outside the Penalty Area

� all opponents are at least 9.15 m (10 yds)from the ball until it is in play


� the free kick is taken from the place wherethe infringement occurred

Infringements/SanctionsIf, when a free kick is taken, an opponent iscloser to the ball than the required distance:

� the kick is retaken

If, when a free kick is taken by the defendingteam from inside its own penalty area, theball is not kicked directly into play:


Free kick taken by a player other than thegoalkeeper

If, after the ball is in play, the kicker touchesthe ball a second time (except with hishands) before it has touched anotherplayer:

� an indirect free kick is awarded to theopposing team, the kick to be taken from theplace where the infringement occurred *(see page 3)

If, after the ball is in play, the kickerdeliberately handles the ball before it hastouched another player:

� a direct free kick is awarded to the opposingteam, the kick to be taken from the place wherethe infringement occurred * (see page 3)

� a penalty kick is awarded if the infringementoccurred inside the kicker’s penalty area

Free kick taken by the goalkeeper

If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeepertouches the ball a second time (except withhis hands), before it has touched anotherplayer:


If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeeperdeliberately handles the ball before it hastouched another player:

� a direct free kick is awarded to the opposingteam if the infringement occurred outside thegoalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be takenfrom the place where the infringement occurred* (see page 3)

� an indirect free kick is awarded to theopposing team if the infringement occurredinside the goalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick tobe taken from the place where the infringementoccurred * (see page 3)

3130Law 14 Law 14

LAW 14 – The Penalty KickA penalty kick is awarded against a teamwhich commits one of the ten offences forwhich a direct free kick is awarded, inside itsown penalty area and while the ball is in play.

A goal may be scored directly from a penaltykick.

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

Position of the Ball and the PlayersThe ball:

� is placed on the penalty mark

The player taking the penalty kick:

� is properly identified

The defending goalkeeper:

� remains on his goal line, facing the kicker,between the goalposts until the ball has beenkicked

The players other than the kicker are located:

� inside the field of play

� outside the penalty area

� behind the penalty mark

� at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the penaltymark

The Referee� does not signal for a penalty kick to be takenuntil the players have taken up position inaccordance with the Law

� decides when a penalty kick has beencompleted

Procedure� the player taking the penalty kicks the ballforward

� he does not play the ball a second time untilit has touched another player

� the ball is in play when it is kicked andmoves forward

When a penalty kick is taken during thenormal course of play, or time has beenextended at half-time or full time to allow apenalty kick to be taken or retaken, a goal isawarded if, before passing between thegoalposts and under the crossbar:

� the ball touches either or both of thegoalposts and/or the crossbar, and/or thegoalkeeper

Infringements/SanctionsIf the referee gives the signal for a penaltykick to be taken and, before the ball is inplay, one of the following situations occurs:

The player taking the penalty kick infringesthe Laws of the Game:

� the referee allows the kick to proceed

� if the ball enters the goal, the kick is retaken

� if the ball does not enter the goal, the kick isnot retaken

The goalkeeper infringes the Laws of theGame:


� if the ball enters the goal, a goal is awarded

� if the ball does not enter the goal, the kick isretaken

A team-mate of the player taking the kickenters the penalty area or moves in front ofor within 9.15 m (10 yds) of the penaltymark:


� if the ball enters the goal, the kick is retaken

� if the ball does not enter the goal, the kick isnot retaken

� if the ball rebounds from the goalkeeper, thecrossbar or the goal post and is touched by thisplayer, the referee stops play and restarts thematch with an indirect free kick to thedefending team

A team-mate of the goalkeeper enters thepenalty area or moves in front of or within9.15 m (10 yds) of the penalty mark:


� if the ball enters the goal, a goal is awarded

� if the ball does not enter the goal, the kick isretaken

A player of both the defending team and theattacking team infringe the Laws of theGame:


If, after the penalty kick has been taken:

The kicker touches the ball a second time(except with his hands) before it hastouched another player:


The kicker deliberately handles the ballbefore it has touched another player:


The ball is touched by an outside agent as itmoves forward:


The ball rebounds into the field of playfrom the goalkeeper, the crossbar or thegoalposts, and is then touched by an outsideagent:

� the referee stops play

� play is restarted with a dropped ball at theplace where it touched the outside agent *(see page 3)

3332Law 15 Law 15

LAW 15 – The Throw-InA throw-in is a method of restarting play.

A goal cannot be scored directly from athrow-in.

A throw-in is awarded:

� when the whole of the ball passes over thetouch line, either on the ground or in the air

� from the point where it crossed the touch line

� to the opponents of the player who lasttouched the ball

ProcedureAt the moment of delivering the ball, thethrower:

� faces the field of play

� has part of each foot either on the touch lineor on the ground outside the touch line

� uses both hands

� delivers the ball from behind and over hishead

The thrower may not touch the ball againuntil it has touched another player.

The ball is in play immediately it enters thefield of play.

Infringements/SanctionsThrow-in taken by a player other than thegoalkeeper

If, after the ball is in play, the throwertouches the ball a second time (except withhis hands) before it has touched anotherplayer:


If, after the ball is in play, the throwerdeliberately handles the ball before it hastouched another player:


� a penalty kick is awarded if the infringementoccurred inside the thrower’s penalty area

Throw-in taken by the goalkeeper

If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeepertouches the ball a second time (except withhis hands), before it has touched anotherplayer:



� a direct free kick is awarded to the opposingteam if the infringement occurred outside thegoalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be takenfrom the place where the infringement occurred *(see page 3)


If an opponent unfairly distracts orimpedes the thrower:

� he is cautioned for unsporting behaviour andshown the yellow card

For any other infringement of this Law:

� the throw-in is taken by a player of theopposing team

3534Law 16 Law 17

LAW 16 – The Goal KickA goal kick is a method of restarting play.

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

A goal kick is awarded when:

� the whole of the ball, having last touched aplayer of the attacking team, passes over thegoal line, either on the ground or in the air, anda goal is not scored in accordance with Law 10

Procedure� the ball is kicked from any point within thegoal area by a player of the defending team

� opponents remain outside the penalty areauntil the ball is in play

� the kicker does not play the ball a secondtime until it has touched another player

� the ball is in play when it is kicked directlybeyond the penalty area

Infringements/SanctionsIf the ball is not kicked directly into playbeyond the penalty area:


Goal kick taken by a player other than thegoalkeeper






Goal kick taken by the goalkeeper

If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeepertouches the ball a second time (except withhis hands) before it has touched anotherplayer:



� a direct free kick is awarded to the opposingteam if the infringement occurred outside thegoalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be takenfrom the place where the infringement occurred *(see page 3)


For any other infringement of this Law:


LAW 17 – The Corner KickA corner kick is a method of restarting play.

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

A corner kick is awarded when:

� the whole of the ball, having last touched aplayer of the defending team, passes over thegoal line, either on the ground or in the air, anda goal is not scored in accordance with Law 10

Procedure� the ball is placed inside the corner arc at thenearest corner flagpost

� the corner flagpost is not moved

� opponents remain at least 9.15 m (10 yds)from the ball until it is in play

� the ball is kicked by a player of the attackingteam


� the kicker does not play the ball a secondtime until it has touched another player

Infringements/SanctionsCorner kick taken by a player other than thegoalkeeper






Corner kick taken by the goalkeeper

If, after the ball is in play, the goalkeepertouches the ball a second time (except withhis hands) before it has touched anotherplayer:

� an indirect free kick is awarded to theopposing team, the kick to be taken from theplace where the infringement occurred*(see page 3)


� a direct free kick is awarded to the opposingteam if the infringement occurred outside thegoalkeeper’s penalty area, the kick to be takenfrom the place where the infringementoccurred * (see page 3)


For any other infringement:


3736

Procedures to determine the winner of a matchThe Golden Goal and taking kicks from thepenalty mark are methods of determiningthe winning team where competition rulesrequire there to be a winning team after amatch has been drawn.

The Golden Goal

Procedure�During the period of extra time playedat the end of normal playing time, the teamwhich scores the first goal is declared thewinner.

� If no goals are scored the match is decidedby kicks from the penalty mark.

Kicks from the Penalty Mark

Procedure� The referee chooses the goal at which thekicks will be taken

� The referee tosses a coin and the teamwhose captain wins the toss decides whetherto take the first or the second kick.

� The referee keeps a record of the kicksbeing taken

� Subject to the conditions explained below,both teams take five kicks

� The kicks are taken alternately by theteams

� If, before both teams have taken five kicks,one has scored more goals than the othercould score, even if it were to complete itsfive kicks, no more kicks are taken

� If, after both teams have taken five kicks,both have scored the same number of goals,or have not scored any goals, kicks continueto be taken in the same order until one teamhas scored a goal more than the other fromthe same number of kicks

� A goalkeeper who is injured while kicksare being taken from the penalty mark andis unable to continue as goalkeeper may be

replaced by a named substitute provided histeam has not used the maximum number ofsubstitutes permitted under the competi-tion rules

�With the exception of the foregoing case,only players who are on the field of play atthe end of the match, which includes extratime where appropriate, are allowed to takekicks from the penalty mark

� Each kick is taken by a different playerand all eligible players must take a kickbefore any player can take a second kick

�An eligible player may change places withthe goalkeeper at any time when kicks fromthe penalty mark are being taken

�Only the eligible players and matchofficials are permitted to remain on the fieldof play when kicks from the penalty mark arebeing taken

�All players, except the player taking thekick and the two goalkeepers, must remainwithin the centre circle

� The goalkeeper who is the team-mate ofthe kicker must remain on the field of play,outside the penalty area in which the kicksare being taken, on the goal line where itmeets the penalty area boundary line.

�Unless otherwise stated, the relevant Lawsof the Game and International F.A. BoardDecisions apply when kicks from the penaltymark are being taken.

�When a team finishes the match with agreater number of players than theiropponents, they shall reduce their numbersto equate with that of their opponents andinform the referee of the name and numberof each player excluded. The team captainhas this responsibility.

� Before the start of kicks from the penaltymark the referee shall ensure that only anequal number of players from each teamremain within the centre circle and theyshall take the kicks.

3938

The Fourth Official

� The fourth official may be appointed underthe competition rules and officiates if any of thethree match officials is unable to continue. Heassists the referee at all times.

� Prior to the start of the competition, theorganiser states clearly whether, if the referee isunable to continue, the fourth official takesover as the match referee or whether the seniorassistant referee takes over as referee with thefourth official becoming an assistant referee.

� The fourth official assists with any adminis-trative duties before, during and after thematch, as required by the referee.

� He is responsible for assisting with substitu-tion procedures during the match.

� He supervises the replacement footballs,where required. If the match ball has to bereplaced during a match, he provides anotherball, on the instruction of the referee, thuskeeping the delay to a minimum.

� He has the authority to check the equipmentof substitutes before they enter the field ofplay. If their equipment does not comply withthe Laws of the Game, he informs the referee.

� He must indicate to the referee when thewrong player is cautioned because of mistakenidentity or when a player is not sent off havingbeen seen to be given a second caution or whenviolent conduct occurs out of the view of thereferee and assistant referees. The referee,however, retains the authority to decide on allpoints connected with play.

� After the match, the fourth official mustsubmit a report to the appropriate authoritieson any misconduct or other incident which hasoccurred out of the view of the referee and theassistant referees. The fourth official mustadvise the referee and his assistants of anyreport being made.

� He has theauthority to informthe referee ofirresponsiblebehaviour by any

occupant of thetechnical area.

The Technical AreaThe technical area described in Law 3,International F.A. Board Decision no. 2,relates particularly to matches played instadia with a designated seated area fortechnical staff and substitutes as shownbelow.

Technical areas may vary between stadia, forexample in size or location, and the followingnotes are issued for general guidance.

� The technical area extends 1 m (1 yd) oneither side of the designated seated area andextends forward up to a distance of 1 m (1 yd)from the touch line.

� It is recommended that markings are used todefine this area.

� The number of persons permitted to occupythe technical area is defined by the competitionrules.

� The occupants of the technical area areidentified before the beginning of the match inaccordance with the competition rules.

� Only one person at a time is authorised toconvey tactical instructions and he must returnto his position after giving these instructions.

� The coach and other officials must remainwithin the confines of the technical area exceptin special circumstances, for example, aphysiotherapist or doctor entering the field ofplay, with the referee’s permission, to assess aninjured player.

� The coach and other occupants of thetechnical area must behave in a responsiblemanner.

4140

REFEREE SIGNALS ASSISTANT REFEREE SIGNALS

Indirect free kick Advantage

Caution

Direct free kick

Sending Off

Substitution Offside Throw-in

Offside on the nearside of the field

Offside in the centreof the field

Offside on thefar side of the field

4342

LAW 11 – Illustrations

The

atta

cker

wh

o re

ceiv

es t

he

bal l

f rom

his

tea

m-m

ate,

num

ber

9, i

s of

f sid

e si

nce

he

is n

eare

r to

his

opp

onen

ts’ g

oal l

ine

than

th

e ba

l l a

nd t

he

seco

nd l a

st d

efen

der

and

gain

s an

adv

anta

ge b

y be

ing

in t

hat

posi

tion

.

The

a tta

cker

wh

o re

ceiv

es t

he

ball

from

his

tea

m-m

ate,

num

ber

8, i

s no

t of

f sid

e be

caus

e, w

hen

th

e b a

l l is

kic

ked,

he

isle

vel w

ith

th

e se

cond

last

def

ende

r.

OF F

SID

E

NO

T O

FFS

IDE

4544

The

atta

cker

, num

ber

9, i

s no

t of

f sid

e be

caus

e, w

hen

th

e ba

l l is

pl a

yed

to h

im b

y h

is t

eam

-mat

e, n

umbe

r 7

, he

is le

vel

wit

h t

he

seco

nd l a

st d

efen

der.

A p

l aye

r ca

nnot

be

o ffs

ide

from

a t

hro

w-i

n .

NO

T O

F FS

IDE

NO

T O

FFS

IDE

4746

The

atta

cker

, num

ber

9, i

s of

f sid

e be

caus

e h

e is

invo

l ved

in a

ctiv

e pl

ay a

nd is

inte

rfer

ing

wit

h t

he

goal

keep

er.

The

att a

cker

, num

ber

9, i

s of

fsi d

e be

caus

e h

e is

in a

n of

fsid

e po

siti

on a

nd is

inte

r fer

ing

wit

h t

he

goal

keep

er.

OF F

SID

E

OFF

SID

E

4948

The

play

er ly

ing

in t

he

goal

are

a is

not

of f

side

sin

ce h

e is

not

invo

l ved

in a

ctiv

e pl

ay a

nd is

not

inte

rfer

ing

wit

h t

he

goa

lkee

per.

Alt

hou

gh t

he

atta

cker

is in

an

offs

ide

posi

tion

wh

en t

he

ball

is k

icke

d b

y h

is t

eam

-ma t

e, n

umbe

r 1

0, h

e is

not

pen

ali s

edbe

caus

e h

e is

not

invo

l ved

in a

ctiv

e pl

ay a

nd d

oes

not

gain

an

adva

ntag

e by

bei

ng in

th

at p

osit

ion.

NO

T O

F FS

IDE

NO

T O

FFS

IDE

5150

The

shot

by

num

ber

6 r

ebou

nds

f rom

th

e go

alpo

st t

o a

team

-mat

e, w

ho

is p

enal

ised

f or

bein

g in

an

off s

ide

posi

tion

,be

caus

e w

hen

th

e ba

l l is

pl a

yed,

he

is in

vol v

ed in

act

ive

play

and

gai

ns a

n ad

vant

age

by b

eing

in t

hat

pos

itio

n.

The

shot

by

a te

am-m

ate

rebo

unds

from

th

e go

alke

eper

to

num

ber

8, w

ho

is p

enal

ised

for

bein

g i n

an

off s

ide

posi

tio n

beca

use,

wh

en t

he

bal l

is p

l aye

d, h

e is

invo

l ved

in a

ctiv

e pl

ay a

nd g

ains

an

adva

ntag

e by

bei

ng in

th

at p

osit

ion.

OF F

SID

E

OF F

SID

E

5352

A B

The

bal

l is

kick

ed t

o th

e go

alke

eper

by

a te

am-m

ate

and

an a

ttac

king

pla

yer

mov

es t

o c h

alle

nge

him

.

The

goa

l kee

per

kick

s th

e ba

ll u

pfie

l d a

nd t

he

atta

ckin

g p

laye

r, n

umb e

r 9

, tur

ns t

o ta

ke u

p an

ons

ide

posi

t ion

.

NO

T O

F FS

IDE

NO

T O

FFS

IDE

5554

The

bal

l is

inte

rcep

ted

by a

tea

m-m

ate

of t

he

atta

ckin

g p

l aye

r an

d p

l aye

d to

ano

ther

tea

m-m

ate

on t

he

win

g. T

he

atta

ckin

gp

laye

r, n

umbe

r 9

, is

not

pena

lise

d fo

r be

ing

in a

n of

fsid

e po

siti

on b

ecau

se h

e is

not

invo

lved

in a

c tiv

e pl

ay a

nd d

oes

not

gai

n an

adv

anta

ge fr

om b

eing

in t

hat

pos

itio

n.

The

bal

l is

play

ed t

owar

ds

goal

by

the

atta

ckin

g te

am a

nd a

def

ende

r ju

mp s

and

han

dles

it a

s t h

e at

tack

ing

pla

yer

mov

est o

war

ds

the

bal

l.

The

defe

nder

i s s

ent

off f

or d

enyi

ng t

he

oppo

sing

tea

m a

n ob

viou

s go

al-s

cori

ng o

ppor

tuni

t y.

NO

T O

F FS

IDE

C B

LAW 12 – Illustrations

5756

The

bal

l is

play

ed f o

rwar

d to

an

atta

ckin

g p

l aye

r an

d th

e go

alke

eper

han

dles

it o

utsi

de t

he

pena

l ty

area

.

The

goa

l kee

per

is s

ent

off f

or d

enyi

ng t

he

oppo

sing

tea

m a

n ob

viou

s go

al-s

cori

ng o

ppo

rtun

ity.

An

a tta

cker

, nu m

ber

10

, sh

oots

th

e b a

l l t

o war

ds

g oa l

. Jus

t be

fore

it c

ross

es t

he

goal

line

i nto

goa

l, a

def

ende

r pu

nch

esth

e ba

ll o

ver

the

bar.

A p

enal

ty k

i ck

is a

war

ded

and

the

defe

nder

is s

ent

off f

or d

enyi

ng t

he

oppo

sing

tea

m a

goa

l.

5958

A d

efen

der

inte

ntio

nal l

y ha

ndl e

s th

e ba

l l in

side

his

ow

n pe

nal t

y ar

ea a

nd t

he

ref e

ree

awar

ds

a pe

nal t

y ki

ck.

He

does

not

sen

d of

f th

e de

f end

er s

ince

no

obvi

ous

goal

-sco

ring

opp

ortu

nity

has

bee

n de

nied

. If t

he

bal

l str

ikes

th

ede

f end

er a

ccid

enta

l ly,

no

off e

nce

is c

omm

itte

d.

The

goa

lkee

p er

pull

s do

wn

an a

ttac

k ing

pla

yer

insi

de h

is p

enal

ty a

r ea

and

a pe

nalt

y ki

ck is

aw

arde

d.

The

goa

lkee

p er

is n

ot s

ent

off s

ince

th

e at

t ack

ing

play

er is

mov

i ng

away

from

goa

l and

doe

s no

t h

ave

an o

bvi

ous

g oal

-sc

orin

g op

p ort

unit

y.

6160

An

atta

ckin

g pl

ayer

, num

ber

10

, is

mov

ing

f orw

ard

near

th

e to

uch

l ine

wh

en h

e is

tri

pped

by

a de

f end

er.

Num

ber

10

doe

s no

t ha

ve a

n ob

viou

s go

al-s

cori

ng o

ppor

tuni

ty a

nd s

o th

e de

f end

er is

not

sen

t of

f .

An

atta

cker

is m

ovin

g to

wa r

ds g

oal w

ith

an

o bvi

ous

goal

- sco

rin g

opp

ortu

nit y

wh

en h

e is

tri

pped

by

a de

fend

er.

The

defe

nder

i s s

ent

off f

or d

enyi

ng a

n op

p one

nt a

goa

l-sc

ori n

g op

port

unit

y.

6362

An

atta

cker

is m

akin

g h

is w

ay t

owar

ds g

oal w

hen

he

is t

ripp

ed b

y a

def e

nder

.

He

does

not

hav

e an

obv

ious

goa

l -sc

orin

g op

port

unit

y, h

owev

er, a

nd t

he

def e

nder

is n

ot s

ent

off .

An

atta

cker

is t

r ipp

ed b

y a

defe

nder

insi

de t

he

pena

lty

area

an d

a p

enal

ty k

ick

i s a

war

ded.

The

defe

nder

is n

ot s

ent

off b

ecau

se t

he

att a

cker

is m

ovi n

g aw

ay fr

om g

oal a

nd d

oes

not

hav

e an

ob

viou

s g o

al-s

cori

ngop

port

unit

y.

6564

An

atta

cker

is m

akin

g h

is w

ay t

owar

ds g

oal w

hen

he

is h

eld

by t

he

goal

keep

er.

The

goa

l kee

per

is s

ent

off f

or d

enyi

ng a

n op

pone

nt a

n ob

viou

s go

al-s

cori

ng o

ppor

tuni

ty.

Additional Instructions for Referees,Assistant Referees and Fourth Officials

The following additional instructions to referees, assistant referees and fourth officials areintended to clarify the correct application of the Laws of the Game.

Football is a competitive sport and physical contact between players is a normal and acceptablepart of the game, however players must play within the Laws and respect the principles of fairplay.

Serious foul play and violent conduct are two sending-off offences in Law 12 involving unaccept-able levels of physical aggression.

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

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

Violent ConductViolent conduct may occur either on the field of play or outside its boundaries, whether the ballis in play or not. A player is guilty of violent conduct if he uses excessive force or brutality againstan 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 orany other person.

Offences against goalkeepersReferees are reminded that:

� 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 theball 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 at the takingof a corner kick

Screening the ballIt is not an offence if a player, with the ball under control within playing distance, screens the ballfrom an opponent without using his arms.

If however he prevents an opponent challenging for the ball by illegal use of the hand, arm, legsor body he must be penalised by a direct free kick, or a penalty kick if the offence was committedinside the penalty area.

6766

Scissors or bicycle kickA scissors kick is permissible provided, in the opinion of the referee, it is not dangerous to anopponent.

Deliberately handling the ballReferees are reminded that deliberately handling the ball is normally punished only by a directfree kick or penalty kick if the offence occurred inside the penalty area. A caution or dismissal isnot normally required.

Preventing a goal or an obvious goal-scoring opportunityA player is sent off, however, if he prevents a goal or an obvious goal-scoring opportunity bydeliberately handling the ball. This punishment in Law arises not from the act of the playerdeliberately handling the ball but from the unacceptable and unfair intervention which preventeda goal being scored.

Cautions for unsporting behaviour by deliberately handling the ballThere are circumstances when, in addition to a free kick being awarded, a player must also becautioned for unsporting behaviour 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

Holding an opponentA common criticism of referees is their failure to correctly identify and punish the offence ofholding an opponent. The failure to deal appropriately with shirt-pulling and arm holding canresult in confrontation situations developing and referees are instructed to make an earlyintervention and to deal firmly with the situation in accordance with Law 12.

A direct free kick or a penalty kick is normally all that is required as punishment but in certaincircumstances an additional sanction is required e.g.

� a caution for unsporting behaviour is required when a player holds an opponent to prevent himgaining 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

The taking of free kicksReferees are reminded that a player must be cautioned if:

� he delays the restart of play

� he fails to respect the required distance when play is being restarted

The Penalty KickIt is an infringement to enter the penalty area before the kick has been taken. The goalkeeper alsoinfringes the Laws if he moves from his goal-line before the ball has been kicked. Referees mustensure that when players infringe this Law appropriate action is taken.

Offside signalsIt is not an offence in itself to be in an offside position.

Assistant referees must only indicate for an offside position if the player has to be penalised forbeing in that position.

Offences by goalkeepersReferees are reminded that goalkeepers are not permitted to keep possession of the ball in theirhands for more than six seconds. A goalkeeper guilty of this offence is punished by an indirectfree kick.

Persistent offendersReferees should be alert at all times to players who persistently infringe the Laws. In particularthey must be aware that even if a player commits a number of different offences he must still becautioned for persistently infringing the Laws.

Attitude towards refereesThe captain of a team, has no special status or privileges under the Laws of the Game but he has adegree of responsibility for the behaviour of his team.

A player who is guilty of dissent by protesting at a referee’s decision must be cautioned.

A player who assaults a referee or who is guilty of using offensive, insulting or abusive language orgestures must be sent off.

SimulationA player who attempts to deceive the referee by feigning injury or pretending to have been fouledis guilty of simulation and must be cautioned for unsporting behaviour.

Delaying the restart of playReferees 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 aretake

� appearing to take a throw-in but suddenly leaving it to one of his team-mates to throw-in

� kicking the ball away or carrying it away with the hands after the referee has stopped play

6968

� excessively delaying the taking of a throw-in or free kick

� delaying leaving the field when being substituted

Celebration of a goalWhile it is permissible for a player to demonstrate his joy when a goal has been scored, thecelebration must not be excessive.

FIFA recognised in Circular No. 579 that such reasonable celebrations are allowed. The practiceof choreographed celebrations is not to be encouraged when it results in excessive timewastingand referees are instructed to intervene in such cases.

A player must be cautioned when:

� in the opinion of the referee, he makes gestures which are provocative, derisory or inflammatory

� he climbs on to a perimeter fence to celebrate a goal being scored

Leaving the field to celebrate a goal is not a cautionable offence in itself but it is essential thatplayers return to the field as soon as possible.

Referees are expected to act in a preventative mode and to exercise common-sense in dealingwith the celebration of a goal.

Liquid refreshmentsPlayers are entitled to take liquid refreshments during a stoppage in the match but only on thetouch line. It is not permitted to throw plastic water bags or any other water containers onto thefield.

JewelleryReferees are reminded that, in accordance with Law 4, players may not wear any kind of jewellery.

Indication of additional time allowedFourth officials are reminded that when, on the instruction of the referee, the minimum addi-tional time to be allowed at the end of each half is being indicated, this indication should only bemade at the end of the final minute in each period of play.

Dealing with injured playersReferees must follow the instructions below when dealing with injured players:

� play is allowed to continue until the ball is out of play if a player is, in his opinion, only slightlyinjured

� play is stopped if, in his opinion, a player is seriously injured

� after questioning the injured player, the referee authorises one, or at most two doctors, to enter thefield to ascertain the type of injury and to arrange the player’s safe and swift removal from the field

� the stretcher-bearers should enter the field with a stretcher at the same time as the doctors to allowthe player to be removed as soon as possible

� the referee ensures an injured player is safely removed from the field of play

� a player is not allowed to be treated on the field

� any player bleeding from a wound must leave the field of play. He may not return until the refereeis satisfied that the bleeding has stopped

� as soon as the referee has authorised the doctors to enter the field, the player must leave the field,either on the stretcher or on foot. If a player does not comply he is cautioned for unsporting behav-iour

� an injured player may only return to the field of play after the match has restarted

� an injured player may only re-enter the field from the touchline when the ball is in play. When theball is out of play, the injured player may re-enter from any of the boundary lines

� the referee alone is authorised to allow an injured player to re-enter the field whether the ball is inplay or not

� if play has not otherwise been stopped for another reason, or if an injury suffered by a player is notthe result of a breach of the Laws of the Game, the referee restarts play with a dropped ball

� the referee allows for the full amount of time lost through injury to be played at the end of eachperiod of play

ExceptionsExceptions to this ruling are made only for:

� injury to a goalkeeper

� when a goalkeeper and an outfield player have collided and need immediate attention

� when a severe injury has occurred e.g. swallowed tongue, concussion, broken leg etc.

The Technical AreaFourth officials are expected to control the technical area in a preventative rather than aconfrontational manner.

However if the occupants of the technical area indulge in serious misconduct the fourthofficial must inform the referee immediately.

7170

four weeks before the date of the meeting,any proposals, requests for experimentationregarding the Laws of the Game and otheritems for discussion.

The agenda and relevant papers shall bedistributed to all member associations of theBoard two weeks before the meeting.

Any confederation or other national associa-tion may forward in writing to the GeneralSecretary of FIFA, proposals, requests oritems for discussion in good time to ensurethat they may be considered by FIFA and, ifacceptable, forwarded to the secretary of thehost association at least four weeks before themeeting.

� MinutesThe minutes of the meeting shall be recordedby the secretary of the host association andshall be reported in the official Minute Book,which shall be forwarded to the associationnext in rotation before the first day ofFebruary ensuing.

� Quorum and Voting PowersThe business of a meeting shall not beproceeded unless four associations, one ofwhich shall be FIFA, are represented. FIFAshall have four votes on behalf of all affiliatednational associations in membership. Theother member associations shall each haveone vote. For a proposal to succeed, it mustreceive the support of at least three-quartersof those present and entitled to vote.

� Alterations to the Lawsof the GameNo alterations shall be made to the Lawsof the Game except in the Annual GeneralMeeting of the Board and then only if agreedby at least three-quarters of those present andentitled to vote.

� Special MeetingsThe association hosting the Board meetingsfor the current year* shall, on receiving awritten requisition signed by FIFA or by anytwo of the other member associations,accompanied by a copy of the proposals to besubmitted, call a special meeting of theBoard. Such special meetings shall be heldwithin twenty-eight days of the requisitionand the associations forming the Board shallreceive twenty-one days’ notice together witha copy of the proposals.

� Decisions of the BoardThe decisions of the Annual BusinessMeeting of the Board shall be effective fromthe date of the meeting, unless agreedotherwise.

The decisions of the Annual General Meetingof the Board regarding changes to the Lawsof the Game shall be binding on confedera-tions and national associations as from 1 Julyfollowing each Annual General Meeting ofthe Board but confederations or nationalassociations whose current season has notended by 1 July may delay the introduction ofthe adopted alterations to the Laws of theGame for their competitions until thebeginning of their next season. No alterationto the Laws of the Game shall be made by anyconfederation or national association unlessthey have been passed by the Board.**

* The current year shall be understood tocommence on the day following the previousAnnual General Meeting.

** It was agreed that for international matchesany such decisions would be effective from 1July following the Annual General Meeting ofthe Board at which they were reached.

RULES OF THE INTER-NATIONAL FOOTBALLASSOCIATION BOARD(Approved by the International FootballAssociation Board – February 1993)

� Name and ConstitutionThe title of the Board shall be the In-ternational Football Association Board. TheFootball Association (England), The ScottishFootball Association, The Football Associa-tion of Wales, The Irish Football Associationand the Fédération Internationale de Foot-ball Association (FIFA), hereafter calledassociations, shall constitute the Board andeach shall be entitled to be represented byfour delegates.

� ObjectsThe objects of the Board shall be to discussand decide proposed alterations to the Lawsof the Game and such other matters affectingassociation football as required to be referredto the Board after consideration by theAnnual General Meetings or other appropri-ate meetings of the associations forming theBoard or confederations or national associa-tions.

� Meetings of the BoardThe Board shall meet bi-annually. TheAnnual General Meeting shall take place inthe month of February or March as agreed.The Annual Business Meeting shall take placein the month of September or October, asagreed. The date and venue of both theAnnual General Meeting and the AnnualBusiness Meeting shall be decided at theprevious Annual General Meeting of theBoard.

In each current year both the Annual GeneralMeeting and the Annual Business Meeting

shall be hosted by the same member associa-tion. A representative of the host associationshall preside. The responsibility for hostingboth meetings shall be passed in rotation toeach association.

Annual General Meeting

The Annual General Meeting is authorised todiscuss and decide on proposed alterations tothe Laws of the Game and other relevantmatters affecting association football whichfall within the remit of the Board.

Annual Business Meeting

The Annual Business Meeting shall take placein the month of September or October, asagreed. The meeting shall have the authorityto consider general business submitted to theBoard. It may provide decisions on suchitems but the Annual Business Meeting shallnot have the authority to alter the Laws of theGame.

� ProceduresAnnual General Meeting

Each association shall forward in writing, notlater than 1 December, to the secretary of theassociation hosting the meeting, suggestionsor proposed alterations to the Laws of theGame, requests for experimentation to theLaws of the Game and other items fordiscussion which shall be printed anddistributed not later than 14 December. Anyamendments to such proposed alterationsmust be submitted in writing to the secretaryof the host association not later than 14January, and such proposals and amend-ments shall be printed and distributed tomember associations for consideration notlater than 1 February.

Annual Business Meeting

Each association shall forward in writing tothe secretary of the host association, at least

72

5.03 rva 17’000 00014 FIFA

Laws of the Game 2003 ok · The Football Association The Scottish Football Association The Football...

Documents

Transcript of Laws of the Game 2003 ok · The Football Association The Scottish Football Association The Football...