Football Rules - Simplified Laws of the Game

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has provided a simplified version of the Football Rules to make the laws accessible to everyone involved in the game. Here's a breakdown of the key points from the rules:

Key Sections

1. Introduction

   • Football rules are simplified from the detailed Laws of the Game.
   • Aims to provide a clear picture for players, coaches, referees, and spectators.
   • Uses common terms (e.g., pitch, penalty spot) for better understanding.

2. Acknowledgements

   • Thanks to contributors for their assistance in developing these rules.

Simplified Laws of the Game

A. Advantage

• Referee signals by extending arms.
• Played if non-offending team benefits and no serious injury occurs.
• Not played on red card offenses unless a clear goal opportunity is present.

B. Arguing/Dissent

• Verbal or physical dissent is punished.
• Clear dissent results in a yellow card; offensive language results in a red card.

C. Ball

• Must be round, correct size, weight, and pressure.
• Checked by referee if suspected to be flat or damaged.

D. Captains

• Lead teams, participate in coin toss.

E. Coaches & Team Officials

• Must remain in designated areas.
• Red or yellow cards can be shown for misbehavior.

F. Competition Rules

• Vary by level of play; adjustments allowed for youth, disability, veterans.

G. Corner Kick

• Taken where the ball exits; ball must be stationary in the corner arc.

H. Dropped Ball

• Used to restart play after stoppage without an offense.

I. Free Kicks

• Direct or indirect based on the severity of the foul.

J. Goalkeepers

• Specific rules apply to their actions inside/outside the penalty area.

K. Offside

• Player position determined at ball's touch.

L. Penalty Kicks

• Awarded for offenses in the penalty area.
• Special rules for goalkeeper and kicker.

M. Substitutions

• Rules for substitution processes and limits.

N. Red & Yellow Cards

• Red card for serious offenses, removal from the game.
• Yellow card for cautionable offenses.

O. VAR System

• Used in top-level competitions to review critical incidents.

Conclusion

• Simplified Laws are designed to enhance understanding and enjoyment of football worldwide.
• Contact The IFAB with questions at [email protected].