Handball Rules: Penalties, Exclusions, and Scoring

Handball Penalties and Infractions

A reprimand is issued for:

• Fouls and similar infractions contrary to the rules.
• Faults requiring progressive punishment.
• Offenses committed while opponents are executing a formal throw.
• Unsportsmanlike conduct by a player or team official.

Exclusion (2 Minutes)

An exclusion (2 minutes) is applied for:

• Incorrect player entry or substitution.
• Repeated fouls requiring progressive punishment.
• Repeated misconduct by a player on or off the pitch.
• Failure to release the ball or place it on the floor when a free throw is awarded against the team in possession.
• Repeated violations while opponents are executing a throw.

Disqualification

A disqualification is mandatory in the following cases:

• An ineligible player enters the field.
• A third instance of misconduct by a team official after a previous 2-minute exclusion.
• Offenses that endanger the physical integrity of an opponent.
• Serious misconduct by a player or team official, on or off the field.
• Assault by a player outside of playing time (before the match or during a break).
• Aggression by a team official.
• A third 2-minute exclusion for the same player.
• Repeated unsportsmanlike conduct during a break.

Expulsion

An expulsion is issued when a player is guilty of an assault during playing time, whether inside or outside the field.

Scoring and Free Throws

A goal is scored when the entire circumference of the ball passes over the goal line.

Penalty Kick (7-Meter Throw)

A penalty kick is awarded when:

• A clear scoring chance is prevented by a foul anywhere on the court.
• A player deliberately plays the ball to their goalkeeper inside the goal area, and the goalkeeper touches it.
• A player enters their own goal area to gain an advantage or stop the ball.
• The goalkeeper enters the goal area while in possession of the ball.

Note: During a 7-meter shot, the shooter must not touch the 7-meter line. Other players must remain behind the 9-meter line and at least 3 meters from the shooter. The goalkeeper may stand anywhere between the goal line and the 4-meter line.

Free Throw Regulations

A free throw is awarded for fouls, incorrect ball handling, goal line violations, unsportsmanlike conduct, time-wasting, or incorrect substitutions. The throw is taken from the spot where the violation occurred and does not require a referee's whistle.