What is the effect of a direct free kick on the defending team?

A direct free kick presents specific responsibilities for the defending team, primarily concerning their positioning relative to the ball. When a direct free kick is awarded, the defending players must remain at least 10 yards away from the ball until it is in play. This rule is designed to ensure that the attacking team has a fair opportunity to execute the kick without immediate interference from the defenders.

The requirement to remain 10 yards away applies regardless of where the foul occurred on the field, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe distance so that the attacking team can carry out the restart effectively. Understanding this rule is crucial for players, as failing to adhere to it can result in the defending team being penalized, possibly leading to the attacking team gaining a significant advantage.

This rule clarifies that the defending team's ability to reposition is restricted during a direct free kick, ensuring that all players are aware of their positioning obligations during such restarts.