The quick answer
A player can play the ball while on the ground if they do so safely. The referee can stop dangerous play if an action threatens injury or makes a nearby opponent afraid to challenge for the ball.
See what changes
Choose a situation. Read the examples below to see why the decision changes.
Room to play
The player is down, but the opponent is well away. The player makes a controlled touch.
In this example
Play can continue
In this example there is no dangerous action or other offence. Being down alone is not the reason for a whistle.
An opponent close by
The player kicks up near a nearby opponent, who holds back for fear of injury. No contact occurs.
In this example
Dangerous play: indirect free kick
The risk and its effect on the nearby opponent change the decision. These are simplified examples, not automatic verdicts for every match.
Common misunderstandings
- “You must stand up before touching the ball.” Being down alone is not an offence.
- “No contact means no foul.” Dangerous play can be penalised without contact.
- “Any high kick is illegal.” The danger to people around the ball matters.
What happens next?
For dangerous play without contact, the opponent gets an indirect free kick. If there is contact, the referee assesses a contact offence; a direct free kick or penalty may apply.
What signal might you see?
For an indirect free kick, the referee raises an arm overhead and keeps it raised until the ball touches another player, goes out, or it is clear a goal cannot be scored directly.
Check your competition
Check your competition’s written rules and ask your coach which rules edition applies. Younger age groups may use adapted formats. Do not assume a rule changes just because the website’s selected city changes.
Make the call
One question. No score or account needed.
A nearby opponent backs away for fear of injury from a dangerous kick, with no contact. What is the restart?
Sources and review
Rules edition: 2026/27 · Sources checked:
Prepared with AI assistance; checked against the linked rules. Simplified illustrations are teaching examples. AI transparency
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