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Franzi | Games
Franzi | Games 
How does Handball works?
Fast, physical, and full of goals – Handball is pure adrenaline sport! But what rules actually lie behind the spectacle?
approx. 3 min.
How does Handball works?
Seven-meter throw and two-minute suspension
In handball, the action comes thick and fast – but behind the rapid play lies a clear set of rules. Here are the most important basics!
Rules in offense:
- Maximum of 3 steps without dribbling – otherwise it’s a traveling violation.
- After dribbling, you may not start dribbling again – otherwise it’s a double dribble.
- From the 6-meter line begins the goal area – only the goalkeeper is allowed inside.
- Maintain possession without unfairly attacking the opponent.
- Avoid passive play: if play becomes too passive, the referee raises a hand – then you have a maximum of 6 passes to attempt a shot.
Rules in defense:
- Body contact is allowed, but only from the front and in a fair manner.
- Pulling, pushing, hitting, or grabbing the jersey is a foul.
- Entering the goal area = free throw for the opponent.
Handball rules
- 2 × 30 minutes
- 10–15 minute break
- In case of a tie in knockout matches: overtime / 7-meter throw
- 7 per team on the court (6 field players + 1 goalkeeper)
- Up to 14 players in the squad
- Substitutions on the fly at any time
- Each goal counts as 1 point
- A goal only counts if the entire ball has crossed the line
- Maximum of 3 steps without dribbling
- After that, the ball must be dribbled or passed
- After dribbling, once you pick up the ball, no further dribbling is allowed
- Dribbling again after that = violation
- Holding, pushing, hitting, or pulling the jersey are fouls
- Consequences: free throw, or a 7-meter throw if a clear scoring chance is prevented
- Warning (yellow card)
- 2-minute suspension
- Red card (disqualification) – for serious fouls or after 3 × 2-minute suspensions
- Blue card (for severe misconduct, with a report sent to the federation)
- The referee raises a hand if the team plays too long without attempting a shot
- After that, a maximum of 6 passes is allowed before a shot – otherwise possession is lost
Our betting options
Got handball figured out? Then let’s go!
Our betting portfolio at MERKUR BETS offers you bets on numerous handball matches – so check it out and place your wager on your favorite!
With this type of bet, you wager on a team to win.
With this type of bet, you wager on the total number of points scored in a game. The points of both teams are added together.
In this type of bet, one team starts with a virtual lead.
Foto: HBL/KLAHN
