Football is governed by 17 official laws, from the field to offside and fouls. A simple, comprehensive guide to all the core rules.
Football is governed by a set of 17 official laws set by the International Board (IFAB), covering everything from field dimensions to fouls and goals. Understanding them makes watching a match deeper and more enjoyable.
Field, ball and players (1-4)
The first laws define the field dimensions, ball specifications, number of players (11 per side including a keeper) and their equipment. A team with fewer than seven players cannot continue.
Officials and timing (5-8)
These cover the referee's authority and team, match duration (two 45-minute halves) and how play starts and restarts. The referee's decision on facts is final.
Ball in and out of play, goals and offside (9-11)
These define when the ball is in or out of play, how a goal counts (the whole ball crossing the goal line), and the offside law that prevents goal-hanging.
Fouls and set pieces (12-17)
These cover fouls and cards, free kicks, the penalty kick, the throw-in, the goal kick and the corner kick. They govern how play restarts after each stoppage.
Summary
The 17 laws create the game's fairness and flow. Go deeper into rules like offside and cards, and follow decision analysis on Shahid Live.
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