Thursday, 1 May 2025
Sport

Soccer Field Dimensions: A Guide to Creating the Perfect Pitch

Are you looking to set up a soccer field but unsure about the dimensions and layout? Look no further! In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the necessary information to create a soccer field that meets the requirements of various governing bodies. Whether you’re organizing a youth soccer program or preparing for an international match, we’ve got you covered. So let’s get started!

Soccer Field Dimensions

The first step in setting up a soccer field is understanding the dimensions. According to FIFA and US Soccer regulations:

  • The field of play should be rectangular, with the width not exceeding the length.
  • The width should be between 65 yards (59.44m) and 80 yards (73.15m), while the length should be between 110 yards (100.58m) and 120 yards (109.72m).
  • The optimum size is 75 yards (68.58m) by 120 yards (109.73m).

Different organizations may have slightly different dimensions. For example, NCAA regulations specify a minimum length of 115 yards (105.16m) and a maximum length of 120 yards (109.73m), with a minimum width of 70 yards (64.01m) and a maximum width of 75 yards (68.58m). It’s important to check with your organization to ensure compliance.

Soccer Field Dimensions

Goal Area Dimensions

Next, let’s talk about the goal area. According to FIFA and US Soccer regulations, a goal area is defined at each end of the field as follows:

  • Two lines are drawn at right angles to the goal line, 6 yards (5.5m) from the inside of each goal post.
  • These lines extend into the field of play for a distance of 6 yards (5.5m) and are joined by a line parallel to the goal line.
  • The area bounded by these lines and the goal line is the goal area.

Goal Area Dimensions

Penalty Area

Moving on to the penalty area, the regulations for FIFA and US Soccer state:

  • Two lines are drawn at right angles to the goal line, 18 yards (16.46m) from the inside of each goal post.
  • These lines extend into the field of play for a distance of 18 yards (16.46m) and are joined by a line parallel to the goal line.
  • At each end of the field, a two-foot (60.96cm) line or a nine-inch (22.86cm) spot will be placed at a point 12 yards (10.97m) from the midpoint of, and parallel to, the goal line.

The line will be drawn with 12 inches on both sides of the center line, and the spot will extend 4.5 inches on either side of the center line.

Corner Area

For the corner area, both FIFA and US Soccer regulations state:

  • The radius of the corner arc is 1 yard (1m) from the flag.
  • Corner flags are required and must be at least 5 feet (1.5m) in height, with no pointed top for safety purposes.
  • Flags should also be located at least 1 yard outside of the field of play at either end of the halfway or midfield line.

Goals

Now let’s talk about goals. According to FIFA and US Soccer regulations:

  • Goals must be placed on the center of each goal line.
  • They consist of two upright posts equidistant from the corner flagposts and joined at the top by a horizontal crossbar.
  • The distance between the posts is 8 yards (7.32m), and the distance from the lower edge of the crossbar to the ground is 8 feet (2.44m).
  • Both goalposts and the crossbar have the same width and depth, which should not exceed 5 inches (12cm).
  • Nets may be attached to the goals and the ground behind the goal, provided they do not interfere with the goalkeeper.
  • The goalposts and crossbars must be white.

Field Markings

Field markings are an essential part of any soccer field. According to FIFA and US Soccer regulations:

  • The field of play is marked with lines.
  • The two longer boundary lines are called touch lines, and the two shorter lines are called goal lines.
  • All lines should be not less than 4 inches (10.16cm) in width but no more than 5 inches (12cm) wide.
  • The field of play is divided into two halves by a halfway line, with a center mark indicated at its midpoint.
  • A circle with a radius of 10 yards (9.15m) is marked around the center mark.

On artificial surfaces, other lines are permitted as long as they are a different color and clearly distinguishable from the lines of play.

FAQS

What are the regulations for an international soccer field?

Official international soccer fields must meet the following requirements:

  • Length: minimum 100 yards (90m), maximum 130 yards (120m)
  • Width: minimum 50 yards (45m), maximum 100 yards (90m)
  • Goal dimensions and markings must follow FIFA and US Soccer regulations.

How should goals be anchored for safety?

Goals must be securely anchored to the ground. Portable goals may only be used if they satisfy this requirement.

How many staking points are needed for marking a soccer field?

The mandatory staking points for marking a soccer field include:

  • Four primary corners of the field
  • Goalie box line ends
  • Penalty box line ends
  • Midfield line at the touch line
  • Penalty kick spot
  • Center point of the field and center of each goal

Optional staking points can also be used for specific purposes, such as coach and team areas, media safety zones, hash marks, and spectator lines.

Conclusion

Setting up a soccer field requires careful attention to detail and adherence to regulations set by various governing bodies. By following the guidelines provided by FIFA, US Soccer, and NCAA, you can create a soccer field that meets the standards for different age groups and competitions. Remember to check with your organization for any specific requirements they may have. Happy field setup!


FIFA Soccer Field Dimensions