Law 15: Umpiring: Objectives and Applying the Rules

Umpires raise the standard of the game at all levels by ensuring that players observe the Rules.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 1.2 · restitution

Umpires maintain the respect of players by being consistent.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 1.3 · restitution

An umpire must be themselves and not imitate another person, at all times.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 1.3 · restitution

Umpires need a thorough knowledge of the Rules, but the spirit of the Rule and common sense govern interpretation.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 1.4 · restitution

Unnecessary interruptions cause delay and irritation; offences that bring the offender no benefit need not be penalised.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 2.2 · restitution

When the Rules have been broken, the umpire must apply advantage if that is the most severe penalty.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 2.2 · restitution

Having decided to play advantage, the umpire must not give a second opportunity by reverting to the original penalty.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 2.2 · application

Possession does not automatically mean advantage; the team with the ball must be able to develop play, so a free hit is the right call.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 2.2 · application

Advantage is applied when it is the most severe penalty, and the decision is not reversed afterwards.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 2.2 · application

Possession alone is not an advantage, so the umpire awards the penalty.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 2.2 · application

The seriousness of an offence must be identified and serious offences dealt with early and firmly.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 2.1 · restitution

Intentional offences must be penalised firmly.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 2.1 · restitution

Decisions must be made promptly, positively, clearly and consistently.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 2.3 · restitution

Cautions can be given to players in close proximity without stopping the match.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 2.3 · restitution

There must be a clear difference: 5 minutes for a minor offence, 10 minutes for a more serious or physical one.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 2.3 · restitution

Abuse by players or team officials, in words or body language, must be dealt with firmly, with cautions or suspensions where appropriate.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 2.3 · application

Two penalties can be used together to deal with bad or persistent offences.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 2.4 · restitution

When a player intentionally misbehaves in a serious manner towards an umpire, the red card must be shown immediately.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 2.3 · application

Persistent offences can be met with two penalties together and with cards of rising category.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Umpiring 2.3, 2.4; Rule 14.1 · application

2 minutes, 5 minutes, then 10 minutes.

Source : FIH Rules 2027, Rule 14.1; Umpiring 2.3 · application