Soccer Touchline
What is the touchline in soccer?
The touchlines, also called sidelines, are the long lines on each side of a soccer pitch. When the ball completely crosses the touchline, the team that did not last touch the ball is awarded a throw-in to restart play. For this reason, the area just outside the touchline should remain clear of any equipment, signs or other players, because it can see a lot of action.
The two touchlines and the two end lines form what is called the field of play. The lines themselves are considered inbounds, but beyond these lines is out of bounds. It also includes the area on the pitch beyond these lines where the manager, staff, and players are allowed to be during the match.
Dimensions
The touchlines are between 100 yards (90 meters) and 130 yards (120 meters) long. They are the longer set of lines on a soccer pitch. The touchlines and end lines make up the boundaries of the soccer pitch. The end lines are between 50 yards (45 meters) and 100 yards (90 meters) long.
FAQ
What are the touchlines in soccer?
In soccer, the touchlines are the two long lines on each side of a soccer pitch. With the goal lines (end lines), they form the field of play. While the lines themselves are considered in bounds, any step outside of the touchlines is out of bounds and the last team to touch the ball is awarded a throw-in to restart play. The touchlines are also sometimes called sidelines.
How long are the touchlines in soccer?
The touchlines in soccer must be at least 100 yards (90 meters) long and a maximum of 130 yards (120 meters) long. This is almost double the length of standard goal lines (end lines), which must be at least 50 yards (45 meters) long and a maximum of 100 yards (90 meters) long.
Who controls the touchlines in soccer?
In soccer, the touchlines are primarily controlled by the assistant referee. When a ball is kicked or accidentally knocked out of play, the assistant referee blows their whistle, declares which team touched it last, and rewards the other team with a throw-in to restart play. Depending on the game and league, other officials may help the assistant referee make such decisions.