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As the international governing body for hockey, we are responsible for the rules of Outdoor Hockey (11 a-side), Indoor Hockey, Hockey5s, Beach and Para Hockey (Hockey ID). Below you can download the rules for each format of the game.
Outdoor Hockey (11 a-side)
The FIH Rules of Hockey App is undergoing a review and therefore currently has limited availability. Once the updated app is available, we will let you know here.
We update our rulebook every two years so it’s worth checking you have the latest version. The current version of the Rules is the below Rules of Hockey published and effective March 2026.
Rules of Hockey 2026 (1.00 MB)
Click Here
Hand Protection Measuring Box (75.2 KB)
Click HereIndoor Hockey
Rules of Indoor Hockey 2023 (560 KB)
Click HereHockey5s
The updated Hockey5s Rules have been developed and agreed through consultation with representatives involved with playing and coaching Hockey5s competitions from all 5 Continental Federations around the world. The key changes to the previous rules are that a goal can now only be scored from within the attacking half of the pitch for safety reasons, and the passive play rule has been removed. This was difficult to consistently implement and was very rarely required as Hockey5s players and coaches have embraced this exciting format of hockey, looking to attack and score whenever possible. Other minor changes have brought Hockey5s in line with other formats and tidied up the Rules based on feedback from around the world. As Hockey5s continues to grow and we work towards the first Hockey5s World Cup in 2023, we are excited about the potential and opportunities Hockey5s provides to bring new players and spectators into hockey.
FIH Rules of Hockey 5s May 2024 (13400.0 KB)
Click HereBeach Hockey
The FIH will be promoting Beach Hockey as a complementary version of the sport to traditional 11-a-side hockey, Indoor Hockey and Hockey5s.
Beach Hockey Rules - 2024 (2.6 MB)
Click HerePara Hockey
Para Hockey is the umbrella term for all forms of Hockey played by individuals with disability. It is a further alternative and an adaptable version of the game, based on a smaller number of players and simplified rules to support the inclusivity of the sport, the enhancement of players’ skills and enjoyment, and the global development of hockey.
In preparation for the first ever Para Hockey World Cup, held in Belgium and the Netherlands in August 2026, the Rules have been revised with effect from 1 June 2026. The revised edition primarily contains editorial alignments with the Outdoor 11-a-side Rules of Hockey, which have been in force since 1 March 2026.
FIH Rules of Para Hockey 2026 (709 KB)
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FAQ
Got a question about the rules of the game? See if yours makes our ‘greatest hits’ in this list of frequently asked questions.
1. What are the obligations of a FIH member?
