PRE-GAME FIELD CHECK

A practical checklist for soccer referees

Safety • Equipment • Markings • Match readiness

Soccer Referee Pre-Game Field Check

Why the Field Check Matters

The referee has responsibility for deciding whether the field and equipment are suitable for play.

Identify safety hazards before players enter the match environment.

Confirm the field, goals, nets, flags and markings are suitable.

Fix problems when possible—or communicate them before kickoff.

Apply the competition's specific rules for field dimensions and equipment.

Remember: safety concerns take priority over cosmetic imperfections.

Soccer Referee Pre-Game Field Check

1. Start With a Full Field Walk

Walk the entire field rather than checking only the center and goals.

Walk both touchlines and both goal lines.

Look for holes, uneven areas, standing water, exposed irrigation heads or other hazards.

Check for debris, rocks, glass or objects that could injure players.

Look beyond the lines too: benches, fences, equipment and spectator areas can create hazards.

If something is unsafe, stop and address it before kickoff.

Soccer Referee Pre-Game Field Check

2. Check the Field Markings

Law 1 requires the field to be rectangular and marked with continuous, non-dangerous lines.

Boundary Lines

Touchlines are continuous.

Goal lines are visible.

Lines are not dangerous.

Key Areas

Halfway line & centre mark.

Penalty areas and marks.

Goal areas & corner arcs.

Competition Rules

Verify field size if required.

Small-sided rules may modify dimensions.

Use the competition rules first.

Soccer Referee Pre-Game Field Check

3. Inspect Both Goals Carefully

Goals are one of the most important safety checks.

Make sure both goal frames are stable and firmly secured.

Check posts and crossbars for damage, sharp edges or loose parts.

Confirm the crossbar is properly positioned and secure.

Inspect the net for holes, loose sections or anything that could interfere with play.

Make sure the net is properly supported and does not interfere with the goalkeeper.

Never allow play to continue with an unsafe goal.

Soccer Referee Pre-Game Field Check

4. Check Corner Flags & Surroundings

Small details can become safety issues.

Check all four corner flagposts.

Flagposts should have a non-pointed top and be tall enough under Law 1.

Make sure flags are securely attached.

Check for hazards immediately outside the field.

Look at benches, goals, fencing, signs and other nearby equipment.

If a minor non-safety issue cannot be corrected, follow competition procedures and report it when required.

Soccer Referee Pre-Game Field Check

5. Inspect the Playing Surface

Surface condition can affect both safety and how the match plays.

Natural grass: look for major holes, exposed roots, loose turf or unsafe wet areas.

Artificial turf: check for damaged or lifted sections and unsafe seams.

Check that the surface is reasonably consistent across the field.

Consider weather: rain, lightning, extreme heat or other conditions may affect whether play can begin.

Do not let pressure from teams or spectators override a genuine safety concern.

Soccer Referee Pre-Game Field Check

6. Ball & Match Equipment

Complete the field inspection, then confirm the equipment you will use.

Confirm the match ball is approved and suitable for the competition.

Check that the ball is properly inflated and in good condition.

Know whether the competition has specific ball-size requirements.

Confirm required match equipment is available: flags, whistles, cards, watch/timing equipment and communication equipment if applicable.

Inspect player equipment before kickoff according to Law 4 and competition rules.

Soccer Referee Pre-Game Field Check

7. What If You Find a Problem?

Use a simple decision process.

1

Is it dangerous?

If yes, do not start until the danger is corrected or the match is otherwise handled under the applicable rules.

2

Can it be fixed?

Work with the field staff or responsible team official to correct the issue.

3

Does a competition rule apply?

Check the competition rules for field dimensions, equipment and local modifications.

4

Does it need reporting?

Document significant issues and report them through the required process.

Soccer Referee Pre-Game Field Check

The 60-Second Referee Checklist

Run this mental checklist every time.

FIELD — surface safe and playable?

LINES — boundaries and key markings visible?

GOALS — secure, safe and properly positioned?

NETS — secure and not interfering with play?

FLAGS — all corners checked?

SURROUNDINGS — no obvious hazards?

BALL — correct and ready?

RULES — competition-specific requirements checked?

COMMUNICATION — problems addressed with the right people?

Good refereeing starts before the whistle.

Key Takeaway

A professional field inspection is systematic, safety-focused and consistent.

Walk it. Check it. Fix it. Communicate it.

Never assume the field is ready just because the teams are ready.

Based on The IFAB Laws of the Game 2026/27 and Practical Guidelines

Soccer Referee Pre-Game Field Check