Free kick - what is it?

A free kick is a game situation in football awarded to the team whose opponent has committed an offence. When a free kick is awarded, the non-offending team may place the ball where the offence occurred and strike the ball freely, while the opponents must stay at least 9.15 metres away from the ball until it is in play. Free kicks are divided into two main types: direct free kicks, where the player can shoot directly at goal and score, and indirect free kicks, where the ball must be touched by another player before a goal can be scored. The rules around free kicks are important to maintain the fairness and safety of the game.

Rules for design and location

In the case of a free kick, the ball must remain stationary at the place of the offence when it is taken. The player taking the free kick must not touch the ball again until another player has touched it. Opponents must be at least 9.15 metres from the ball, and if they are closer they are asked to retreat, but play can still start. If a player interferes with play by moving towards the ball before it is in play, the referee may stop play and allow the free kick to be retaken. In the case of a free kick near the goal line, the place of the free kick can be moved backwards to ensure fairness.

Tactical importance and use

Free kicks are important set pieces that are often utilised to create scoring opportunities, especially in direct free kicks near the opponent's goal. Teams often practice different variations of free kicks to surprise their opponents and utilise players' technical skills. Indirect free kicks are more often used for minor fouls and require co-operation between players to create dangerous attacks. Free kicks contribute to the dynamics of the game and are a central part of football strategy and rules.