The Throw-in

Award and direct goals

The opponents of the last player to touch the ball receive a throw-in when the whole ball crosses the touchline, in air or on the ground. A throw-in can also change teams for delay. A throw directly into the opposing goal gives a goal kick; into the thrower's own goal gives a corner.

1. Procedure

Face the field, keep part of each foot on the touchline or ground outside it, and use both hands to throw from behind and over the head at the exit point. Opponents must be at least 2 m from that point.

The ball is live when it enters the field. If it hits the ground first, the same team retakes from the same place. An incorrectly taken throw passes to the opponents. The thrower cannot touch it again until another player has.

A correct throw deliberately against an opponent to regain the ball is permitted if not careless, reckless or excessively forceful.

2. Delay and other offences

For unfair delay the referee whistles and starts a visible five-second countdown. If the throw is not taken by its end, award it to the opponents. Caution only if the offender excessively delays after the throw has changed teams; the countdown protocol supplies further detail.

A second touch gives an indirect free kick. Handball gives a direct free kick, or a penalty inside the thrower's own area, except a defending goalkeeper's handling there gives an indirect kick.

An opponent who unfairly distracts or obstructs the thrower, including approaching within 2 m, is cautioned. If the throw was already taken, award an indirect free kick. Other throw-in offences transfer the throw to the opponents.