Fifa new handball rule

You're referring to the new handball rule introduced by FIFA in the 2019-2020 season!

The new rule, also known as "Handball Law 12.2," aims to clarify the definition of handball and reduce controversy in the game. Here's a summary of the key changes:

What is considered a handball?

Under the new rule, a handball is considered to have occurred when the ball touches a player's arm or hand, including:

  1. The arm or hand is above the shoulder level.
  2. The arm or hand is not in a natural position (e.g., it's not by the player's side).
  3. The arm or hand is not in contact with the ball when it is kicked or headed by another player.

What is NOT considered a handball?

The new rule also clarifies that the following situations are NOT considered handballs:

  1. The ball touches a player's arm or hand below the shoulder level.
  2. The ball is deliberately kicked or headed at a player's arm or hand.
  3. The ball is accidentally kicked or headed at a player's arm or hand, and the player is not in a position to control the ball.

Penalty for handball

If a handball is deemed to have occurred, the referee can award a free kick or penalty kick to the opposing team, depending on the location of the handball and the severity of the offense.

Key changes

The new rule introduces several key changes to help referees make more accurate decisions:

  1. The "ball-to-hand" test: Referees will now consider whether the ball was deliberately handled or if it was an accidental contact.
  2. The "natural position" test: Referees will consider whether the arm or hand was in a natural position or not.
  3. The "above shoulder level" test: Referees will consider whether the arm or hand was above the shoulder level when the ball made contact.

Overall, the new handball rule aims to reduce controversy and ensure that the game is played fairly and consistently.