Overview
The FIVB Official Volleyball Rules 2025-2028 provide the standardized framework for all international volleyball competitions, covering facilities, equipment, match play, roles, conduct, and procedures for teams and officials. These rules ensure fair, consistent competition and outline clear responsibilities for participants and match officials.
Game Structure and Objectives
- Volleyball is played by two teams separated by a net, aiming to ground the ball on the opponent's court or force a fault.
- Each team is allowed three hits to return the ball (excluding blocks).
- Matches use the rally point system; every rally results in a point.
- Teams rotate clockwise upon gaining the right to serve.
Facilities and Equipment
- Courts measure 18 x 9 m with specific minimum free zones and clearances.
- Indoor surfaces must be flat, safe, and of approved materials and contrasting colors.
- Nets are set at 2.43 m (men) or 2.24 m (women), with defined structural standards.
- Competition balls must meet specific size, weight, color, and pressure requirements.
Teams and Participants
- Teams may register up to 12 (or 14 in some competitions) players plus up to five staff.
- Only those listed on the score sheet can enter the control area or participate.
- One player must be designated as the captain; teams may include up to two Liberos.
- Uniforms must be consistent; Liberos require contrasting kits.
Match Format and Scoring
- A set is won by reaching 25 points with at least a two-point lead (15 points in fifth set).
- Matches are best of five sets.
- Teams may request two time-outs and six substitutions per set.
- The right to serve and court sides are determined by a pre-match toss.
Player Actions and Restrictions
- Teams are permitted up to three hits per rally, not counting blocks.
- Certain faults include four hits, double contacts, carrying, and illegal assists.
- Only front-row players may block or attack above the net; back-row/Liberos have attack restrictions.
Conduct and Sanctions
- All participants must adhere to sportsmanlike conduct and fair play.
- Minor misconduct is warned verbally or with a yellow card (no immediate penalty).
- Rude or offensive conduct leads to penalties ranging from points to expulsion/disqualification.
Referees and Match Officials
- Key officials: first referee, second referee, challenge referee, reserve referee, scorer, assistant scorer, and line judges.
- The first referee has authority over the entire match and all officials.
- Referees enforce rules, announce decisions via official hand signals, and resolve disputes or protests.
Interruptions and Delays
- Regular interruptions: time-outs and substitutions, both with set limits.
- Delays are sanctioned by warning (yellow card), then penalty (red card and point to opponent).
- Exceptional substitutions allowed for injury/illness.
Libero Rules
- Liberos are specialist defensive players with specific replacement and action rules.
- Liberos cannot serve, block, or attack above net height and must wear a distinct uniform.
- Libero replacements are unlimited but regulated between rallies.
Diagrams and Signals
- Official diagrams detail court markings, player positions, and equipment layouts.
- Referees and line judges use standardized hand and flag signals for clear communication.
Definitions
- Key terms (e.g., zones, replacement, external interference) are clearly defined for consistent interpretation.