Futsal Rules

There is a particular set of futsal rules. Because of these specific rules, it is different from football or soccer.  Each team has five players on it, including the goalkeeper. At the Substitution Zone in futsal, substitutions are unlimited.

Futsal rules might vary from competition to competition. However, the basic rules are the same all across the world. For the game of futsal, FIFA established a set of rules.

What is futsal?

Futsal is an exciting and fast-paced indoor soccer game that originated in Uruguay in the 1930s. It is played on a hard court with teams of five players, including one goalkeeper. The game is known for its quick thinking, close control, and technical skill.

It is designed specifically for indoor use to enhance football skills. But because of its popularity, futsal has become one of the most popular sports in the globe. FIFA is now the official governing body for futsal, and FiFa has established its rules. 

Basics Rules of Futsal

If you’re new to futsal or need a refresher on the futsal rules, here are the basics you need to know:

• Futsal is a team sport where two groups of five players each play.
• The game is in two parts, with a short break in between each 20-minute half.
• Fouls are punished with either free kicks or penalties, based on how bad the offense was.
• In their own penalty area, only the goalie can touch the ball with their hands.
• In futsal, players can be replaced at any time during the game.

Futsal Official Rules

To ensure fair and competitive gameplay, there are specific rules and regulations for all. Let’s see some common official rules by governing authorities like US Soccer, UEFA, and FIFA for Futsal.

Official Futsal Rules for Players

When it comes to players’ rules in futsal, there are a few important guidelines to follow:

• Players have to follow the FIFA Futsal Official Rulebook.
• Each player has their own roles and responsibilities. 
• Players should not do any misconduct during the gameplay. 

Official Futsal Rules for Goalkeeper

The goalkeeper plays a crucial role in futsal, and there are specific rules that apply to their position:

• The goalkeeper must wear a different color jersey than the outfield players to easily identify them on the court.
• A goal could not be scored opponent’s net. 
• A goal may be scored with the head in the goal box, but only directly off corner kicks.

Official Futsal Rules for Referee

Some key rules for referees include:

• Players’ referees have the important task of enforcing the rules and ensuring fair play.
• They must wear a different color dress.
• The referee has the power to warn or remove any player or team representative who acts in an inappropriate way or uses offensive words.

These official rules for players, goalkeepers, and players’ referees are essential for maintaining the integrity of the game and providing an exciting and fair experience for all participants.

Futsal Rulebook:

The Futsal Rulebook is a detailed set of futsal rules for the futsal game. These rules must be followed by players, coaches, referees, and officials during futsal matches. FIFA implements the rulebook for fairness in the game. 

The Futsal Rulebook includes a variety of topics, such as field and equipment requirements, team makeup, match duration, starting procedures, ball in and out of play, fouls and misbehavior, goalie regulations, penalty kicks, and more. It includes extensive explanations and interpretations for each rule, assisting in the resolution of potential conflicts and maintaining a consistent standard among various futsal competitions across the world.

The rulebook is a resource for futsal players. The officials set the rules of the game and guarantee that matches are safe, fair, and fun. FIFA updates it on a regular basis to address any rule changes, clarifications, or modifications that may be required to improve the game or solve new difficulties.

Futsal Misconduct & Violations Rules

Futsal Rules of Misconduct & Violations, outline the guidelines for player behavior and penalties. These rules ensure fair play and maintain the integrity of the game. So, it’s important to understand the rules surrounding misconduct and violations. 

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Yellow Card: 

A player may receive a yellow card for offenses such as persistent fouling, unsporting behavior, or dissent towards the referee. Upon receiving a yellow card, the player must leave the court for a two-minute penalty.

Second Yellow Card: 

If a player receives a second yellow card in the same game, it will result in an automatic red card, and the player will be sent off the court.

Red Card: 

A red card is given for more serious offenses, such as violent conduct, serious foul play, or abusive language. When a player receives a red card, they are immediately sent off the court and cannot be replaced. 

Foul Penalties: 

Futsal has a direct free-kick rule, meaning that fouls committed inside the penalty area will result in a penalty kick. The opposing team will have an opportunity to score from the penalty spot, with only the goalkeeper defending it.

Goalkeeper Restrictions: 

Goalkeepers have certain restrictions in futsal. They are not allowed to touch the ball with their hands if it has been deliberately passed back to them by a teammate, as this would result in an indirect free kick for the opposing team.

Time Wasting: 

Futsal has strict rules against time-wasting tactics. If a player is deemed to be deliberately wasting time, either by taking too long to restart play or feigning injury, the referee can penalize them with a yellow card or even a red card in extreme cases.

Unsporting Behavior: 

Any behavior that is deemed unsporting, such as simulation, diving, or deliberately tripping an opponent, can result in a yellow card.

Final Words:

Futsal rules are specific and strict to all. Because of these specific rules, it is different from football or soccer. Whether you are a player, coach, or fan, understanding the basics will enhance your overall futsal experience.

Frequently Asked Questions