Question Number: 28254

Law 15 - Throw In 3/15/2014

RE: Adult

Erik of Bergen, Norway asks...

Hi,

I've read the FIFA rules about Throw-Ins, but can't find anything about a TI taken with a bent knee, like if kneeling. Even though I read an answer at this site, about something else, and the answer ended with the sentence 'one thing is for sure, you can't take a TI kneeling'. Why is that? While kneeling you are facing the pitch, and you got part of both feet on the ground?

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Erik
The Laws require an element of 'tacit knowledge' in their interpretation. It is not unique to the throw in. Players are expected to stand while taking a throw in. Have you ever seen a player kneeling to take a TI?
In 2006 the Laws of the Game had a Questions and Answers attachment which was used as interpretation of the various Laws. At that time it was stated clearly that kneeling was not allowed and referees know that. This is the quote
"" Q&A 2006 15.7
Is a player allowed to take a throw-in kneeling or sitting down?
No. A throw-in is only permitted if the correct procedures in the Laws of the Game are followed.""
The wording in Law 15 was the same then as it is today

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

Tradition plays an important part of the laws of the game. While a flip throw is legal because at the moment of the release, both feet are on the ground, kneeling and sitting are not.