Soccer Rules Practice Exam 2025 - Free Soccer Rules Practice Questions and Study Guide

The six-second rule in soccer refers to the requirement that a goalkeeper must release the ball within six seconds of gaining possession. This rule is designed to maintain the flow of the game and prevent time-wasting by goalkeepers, encouraging a more dynamic playstyle. When a goalkeeper has the ball in their hands—whether from catching, picking it up from the ground, or after a save—they are allowed a maximum of six seconds to distribute the ball. If they fail to do so, an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team at the spot where the goalkeeper was holding the ball.

The other options involve situations that do not have established six-second limits. The timing of free kicks, throw-ins, and player departures after a red card follow different rules and are not constrained by the specific six-second guideline that applies to goalkeepers. Understanding this rule helps players, coaches, and referees manage the game effectively and ensures compliance with the laws of the game.