IHF Rule Interpretation

Interpretations, explanations, and guidelines for the IHF Rules of the Game.

The new IHF app “Interpretation of the Rules” represents an innovation in rule development and interpretation.

By use of different media, all fundamental rules are explained didactically for different target groups.

This app is not only intended to educate and train referees and delegates worldwide – with the development of an app, the IHF wants to motivate coaches, players, journalists and handball fans to explore interpretations, guidelines, and clarifications of the handball rules.

This innovative, entirely new approach is based on the targeted use of various media.

With the help of edited instructional videos from IHF events, the corresponding rule interpretations are visualised and explained.

For important topics, videos have even been especially recorded with demonstration teams in order to explain these in even greater detail.

In view of the new rules that come into force on 1 July 2022, for example, comprehensive didactic video material has been created for the new throw-off area and situations, in which goalkeepers are hit in the head by open shots. With the launch of the app, clarifications on these two important new rules are offered in more than 100 scenes for all Member Federations.

Note: The app is continuously updated and expanded. Key rule interpretations by the IHF Playing Rules and Referees Commission (PRC) and the IHF Commission of Coaching and Methods (CCM) are thus made available without delay.

Over the coming weeks and months, clarifications and explanations of all important rules will be integrated into the app, which will ensure fast-growing content for the users.

The new media service for the official IHF interpretation of the rules has clear goals:

• Uniform rule interpretation, common line for all (IHF, Continental Confederations, Member Federations)

• More precise and easier to understand decision criteria for different game situations

• Uniform training of referees in National Federations, Continental Confederations, and the IHF

• More detailed information and understanding for referees, coaches, delegates, players, and spectators

• Attractive information for journalists, media, spectators