Foosball is one of the most popular recreational games. Unlike traditional football, where you must physically get on the field, in table football, each “player” is controlled via rods manipulated by the participants. The outcome of the game depends on the skill of the person controlling the team. Players can showcase their abilities as forwards, shooters, defenders, or goalkeepers. They can demonstrate exciting offensive and defensive skills such as receiving, stopping, passing, and shooting by skillfully maneuvering the rods. This creates an experience that brings the excitement of a real football field to life.

Foosball Rules

1. The game can be played in three formats:

  • One-on-one (two players)
  • One player against two players
  • Two players against two players

2. Both teams control their players by manipulating the rods—pushing, pulling, rotating, or performing various offensive and defensive techniques.

3. The game starts with a throw-in from either side at the center of the field. After a goal, the losing side performs a kick-off from the center.

4. If the ball stops in the middle of the field or goes off the table, the kicker will perform another kick-off or place the football near a corner and let it naturally roll. This is known as a throw-in or corner kick.

5. Each game consists of three rounds, with ten goals in each round. The first player to score ten goals wins a round, and the first player to win two rounds wins the game, or the winner can be determined based on the number of goals scored within a certain time limit.

Foosball Equipment

1. Playing Field

  • Competition Field: This is the area where spectators watch the game, the tables are positioned, and players stand. In official competitions, each table should occupy a ground area of at least 2.5m x 3m.
  • Playing Area: The space defined by the goal frames and the inner walls of the table borders.

2. Equipment

1. General Requirements:

  • Competition organizers must provide suitable equipment, including stable tables, durable figures (players), and clean, straight rods. Competition regulations should specify approved equipment in advance.
  • The foosball table surface must be flat and smooth. Any foosball table failing to meet this requirement cannot be used.

2. Lubrication and Maintenance:

  • Rods may be lubricated, provided the lubrication does not alter their internal structure.
  • Players may only use designated brands of lubricants and cleaning agents approved by the organizers. Non-compliance with these specifications may result in disqualification.

3. Prohibited Substances:

  • The use of rosin (e.g., on handles), manganese, or similar substances is not permitted. Violations may result in player disqualification.
  • Event organizers have the authority to prohibit products that may harm equipment or players.

4. Modifications:

  • Any structural or performance modifications to the foosball table, other than routine maintenance, are strictly prohibited.

3. Balls

  1. There are no restrictions on the material of the balls; however, only the balls specified by the Competition Committee may be used. Competition regulations will outline the designated competition balls.
  2. Depending on the competition venue, participants may bring their own competition balls or purchase the designated balls on-site.

4. Handles

  1. Participants may use their own handles if they are interchangeable, compatible with the rods, and do not damage the table.
  2. Participant-owned handles must not include assistance or resistance features, nor should they incorporate mechanical devices. Rods must be securely attached to the handles.
  3. Organizers have the authority to determine if a handle poses a safety risk and whether it may be used. Failure to comply with the organizer’s decision may result in disqualification.
  4. Players must be able to replace handles between rounds, during timeouts, or after scoring a goal.

5. Additional Equipment

  1. Players may use additional equipment, such as gloves, elastic bands, non-slip straps, and grip covers for handles, provided they do not pose a safety risk to themselves or others.
  2. Additional equipment must not alter the table’s surface or structure.

How to Play Foosball

1. Passing and Ball Control

By skillfully manipulating the rods, players can pass the ball in any direction—forward, backward, left, or right. When the ball moves through the sides of the field or beneath a player’s feet, they can use their controlled figure to stop the ball and make another pass. Players can also block the ball to disrupt an opponent’s move. These techniques can be used to organize an effective attack or defense.

2. Backline Attack

When a player has control of the ball with a defender in the backfield, they can position their center and forward players for a head-to-head confrontation with the opposing defense. From this position, the player may shoot directly at the defender.

3. Penalty Kick

When the ball is placed in front of the attacking forward, the defending team may only use their defensive players to block the shot. Backline players are not allowed to assist in this situation.

4. Shooting

Players can attempt various types of shots from different angles whenever they gain control of the ball during the game. These shots can vary in technique and intensity, depending on the player’s skill level and strategy.