Dangerous Play

Dangerous play is an action that creates a risk of injury to any player, including the player themselves, even if there is no physical contact. It results in an indirect free kick.

The full rule

Dangerous play covers actions that endanger a player without necessarily making contact. The most common example is a high boot near another player's head. Unlike serious foul play — which involves contact and excessive force — dangerous play is about creating risk. It results in an indirect free kick, not a direct free kick or penalty. A player attempting to kick the ball when an opponent is attempting to head it at close range is the classic example.

Key points

✓No contact required — creating the risk is enough
✓Results in an indirect free kick, not a direct free kick
✓High boot near an opponent's head is the most common example
✓Attempting to kick a ball an opponent is heading counts
✓Different from serious foul play which involves contact and force

Scenarios

Scenario 1

High boot near opponent's head with no contact

Foul

A player raises their boot to control a high ball. An opponent trying to head the ball pulls away to avoid being kicked but there is no contact.

Correct call: Indirect free kick for dangerous play. The action created a risk of injury even without contact.

Common mistake: Waving play on because there was no contact. Contact is not required for dangerous play.

Scenario 2

Player attempts overhead kick near opponent

Foul

A player attempts a bicycle kick near an opponent's head in a crowded penalty area.

Correct call: Indirect free kick for dangerous play if the action endangered the opponent.

Common mistake: Allowing the action because bicycle kicks are spectacular. The safety of opponents always takes precedence.