CupIndex
Rules

Free Kick Rules

Direct and indirect free kick rules in football explained.

Quick Answer

Free kicks are awarded for fouls and come in two types: direct (can score directly) and indirect (must touch another player first). Direct kicks are given for contact fouls like pushing or tripping, while indirect kicks are for non-contact offenses like dangerous play.

Free Kick Positioning
Free kicks are awarded for fouls and are either direct or indirect.

Direct Free Kick

Awarded for:
• Kicking or attempting to kick an opponent
• Tripping or attempting to trip
• Jumping at an opponent
• Charging an opponent
• Striking or attempting to strike
• Pushing an opponent
• Tackling from behind making contact with player before ball
• Holding an opponent
• Spitting at an opponent
• Handling the ball deliberately

A goal CAN be scored directly from a direct free kick.

Indirect Free Kick

Awarded for:
• Playing in a dangerous manner
• Impeding the progress of an opponent
• Preventing goalkeeper from releasing the ball
• Goalkeeper handling back-pass or throw-in from teammate
• Various goalkeeper offenses

A goal CANNOT be scored directly - another player must touch the ball first.

Wall Distance


• Defending players must be at least 9.15m (10 yards) from the ball
• Attacking players cannot be in the defensive wall

Quick Free Kicks

Teams can take quick free kicks unless:
• The referee has called for the wall to be set up
• A card is being shown
• A substitution is being made

Frequently Asked Questions