Question Number: 20777

Law 1- The Field 1/29/2009

RE: Adult

J Ward of Dunfermline, Fife Scotland asks...

How far is a footballer allowed to carry the corner flag if it gets in his way when he's taking a corner?

Answer provided by Referee Keith Contarino

That would be not at all. The taker of a corner kick is free to place the ball wherever he wants in the corner arc so should be able to do so in such a manner that the corner flag doesn't interfere with the taking of the kick

Answer provided by Referee Michelle Maloney

If the corner flag for some reason is leaning into the field in such a way as it is obstructing the kick, the kicker or a teammate may straighten it, or hold it straight during the kick, but under no circumstances are they allowed to remove the flag or carry it anywhere.

Answer provided by Referee Gary Voshol

If the flag needs to be straightened, the player should notify the referee before touching it. Better safe than sorry. If despite the best efforts the flag cannot be made straight - because somebody's local league bought cheap wimpy flagpoles - you play it as it lies. It's no different than the league that can afford to paint the lines only once or twice a season. You do the best you can with what you are given.

This shouldn't happen in more advanced leagues, especially professional leagues with paying guests or elite club leagues where players pay thousands to play. Those leagues should shell out to get proper equipment.

Answer provided by Referee Richard Dawson

Carry??
I suspect you mean if it is interfering by being bent or the flag flapping can the kicker have it altered or moved?
Generally the kicker is not permitted to alter the flag although he may request the referee can it be fixed properly if it was causing an issue. Some fields have a run up issue with a track inset or ad boards / spectator dividers in close proximity that can make it difficult to get a good angle. The ball can be placed ANYWHERE within the 1 yard arc so if the flag is leaning or flapping one can usually find a spot that is not being crowded out.
In really windy conditions I suppose I might allow a team mate to hold the flag from whipping around if that was the case, but that takes a player away from being available to score so not likely a tactically smart decision.
I can recall only ever cautioning one player for yanking the flag out AFTER being warned leave it alone and reposition the ball as USB. Funny though I have sent off 3 players for using the whipping action of the flag stick to flick at the opposition as violent conduct.
Cheers

The following questions were asked as a follow up to the above question...

See Question: 20791