2026/27 season changes · In force since 1 July 2026. Where they differ from the summary below, these changes take precedence.
- Penalty kick: accidental double touch: Confirmation of Circular No. 31: at a penalty kick in open play, if the taker accidentally plays the ball with both feet or it touches the standing leg, the kick is retaken if it scores and an indirect free kick is awarded if it does not.
- Penalty kick: simultaneous offence: If the goalkeeper and kicker commit an offence at the same time, the kicker is cautioned and play restarts with an indirect free kick to the defending team; the previous automatic caution is removed.
Taking the kick
The ball is placed on the penalty mark. The kicker must be clearly identified. The goalkeeper must remain on the goal line, facing the kicker, until the ball is kicked.
The goalkeeper
Must have at least part of one foot touching, in line with, or behind the goal line when the ball is kicked. They may not be entirely behind the line.
Goalkeeper offence
If the goalkeeper offends and the ball enters the goal: goal. If it does not: the kick is retaken and the goalkeeper is cautioned (from the second offence at the same kick).
Kicker or attacking team offence
If the ball enters the goal: retaken. If it does not: an indirect free kick to the defending team. If the kicker feints after completing the run-up: caution and indirect free kick.
Double touch
If the kicker touches the ball a second time before it has touched another player: indirect free kick to the defending team.
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