The restart position can look identical, so the referee's signal is crucial. For an indirect kick the raised arm remains up until another player touches the ball, the ball goes out of play or it becomes clear a goal cannot be scored directly.
Direct kicks generally follow physical or handball offences. Indirect kicks cover technical offences such as dangerous play without contact and certain goalkeeper violations.
Quick comparison
| Rule | Direct free kick | Indirect free kick |
|---|---|---|
| Can score directly in opponents' goal? | Yes | No—another touch is required |
| Referee signal | Points direction of restart | Also holds one arm overhead |
| Typical cause | Trip, push, kick, handball | Dangerous play, impeding without contact, technical offence |
| Inside defender's penalty area | Usually a penalty kick | Indirect kick from the applicable position |
What if the kick goes straight into a goal?
If a direct free kick enters the opponents' goal, a goal is awarded. If an indirect kick enters without another touch, the defending team receives a goal kick. A free kick cannot produce an own goal directly; if it enters the kicker's own goal without another touch, the opponents receive a corner kick.
Distance and ceremonial restarts
Opponents must normally remain at least 9.15 m (10 yd) from the ball until it is in play, subject to specific positions near the goal area. The attacking team can sometimes restart quickly, but when the referee manages the wall or applies disciplinary action, players must wait for the whistle.
Official rules and related Trackd guides
Frequently asked questions
How do you know a free kick is indirect?
The referee holds one arm above the head until the required second touch or another ending condition.
Is offside punished with a direct free kick?
No. An offside offence restarts with an indirect free kick.
Can a penalty kick be indirect?
No. A penalty kick is its own direct scoring restart.
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