The Ball in and out of Play
IFAB · 2026/27Know when play stops, when it continues and what happens if the ball hits a match official.
1. Ball out of play
The ball is out when all of it crosses a touchline or goal line, whether on the ground or in the air, or when the referee stops play.
A dropped ball is required if the ball touches a match official, stays on the field and either changes the team in possession, starts a promising attack or travels directly into a goal.
2. Ball in play
Play otherwise continues when the ball rebounds from a post, crossbar or corner flag and stays on the field, or touches an official without the consequences listed above.
If a team official, substitute, substituted or sent-off player, or temporarily absent player touches a ball that is clearly about to leave the field without intending unfair interference, award an indirect free kick but no disciplinary sanction.
Sources & approach ↗