Law 15 - The Throw In (2024)

IFAB Laws of the Game 2023-24

Law 15 The Throw In

A throw-in is awarded to the opponents of the player who last touched the ball when the whole of the ball passes over the touchline, on the ground or in the air.

A goal cannot be scored directly from a throw-in:

if the ball enters the opponents’ goal – a goal kick is awarded
if the ball enters the thrower’s goal – a corner kick is awarded

1. Procedure

At the moment of delivering the ball, the thrower must:

stand facing the field of play
have part of each foot on the touchline or on the ground outside the touchline
throw the ball with both hands from behind and over the head from the point where it left the field of play

All opponents must stand at least 2 m (2 yds) from the point on the touchline where the throw-in is to be taken.

The ball is in play when it enters the field of play. If the ball touches the ground before entering, the throw-in is retaken by the same team from the same position. If the throw-in is not taken correctly it is retaken by the opposing team.

If a player, while correctly taking a throw-in, deliberately throws the ball at an opponent in order to play the ball again but not in a careless or a reckless manner or using excessive force, the referee allows play to continue.

The thrower must not touch the ball again until it has touched another player.

Useful Resources

The FA Handbook Archive

The FA Handbook 2023-24

Law 9: The Ball In and Out of Play

Law 3: The Players

Chanukah celebration held at Wembley

Update on Mikel Arteta charge

FA Rule K arbitration award published today

Update on the Participant Behaviour Charter

I've got you covered when it comes to Law 15: The Throw-In in football! This regulation is a fundamental part of the game and has a significant impact on play. Here's a breakdown:

Law 15 - The Throw-In

1. Procedure:

Awarded to opponents of the player who last touched the ball when it crosses the touchline.
The thrower must stand facing the field, with part of each foot on or outside the touchline.
The ball must be thrown from behind and over the head using both hands, from the point where it left the field.
Opponents must stand at least 2 meters away from the point of the throw-in.
The ball is in play upon entering the field; if it touches the ground before entering, a retake is done.

2. Offences and Sanctions:

If the thrower touches the ball again before another player, an indirect free kick is given.
Handball offences lead to direct/penalty kicks depending on location.
Opponents unfairly impeding the thrower face sanctions and give an indirect free kick if the throw-in was taken.
Other offences allow the throw-in to be taken by the opposing team.

Understanding the nuances of Law 15 is crucial in football as it influences possession, field position, and potential scoring opportunities. The regulations ensure fair play and prevent teams from gaining undue advantage from throw-ins.

Regarding the resources mentioned, the FA Handbook is a goldmine for understanding football regulations, including Law 15. It's a comprehensive guide for players, coaches, and officials to comprehend the intricacies of the game's rules and regulations. Additionally, the Laws of the Game 2023-24 provide detailed insights and updates on this law, ensuring everyone stays up-to-date with the latest changes in football regulations.

If you have any specific questions or need further clarification about Law 15 or any other football-related rules, feel free to ask!