The FA is completing the phased introduction of new heading rules across younger age groups this season.
Deliberate heading has already been removed from affiliated Under-7 to Under-10 matches. From the beginning of the 2026/27 season, the change will also apply to Under-11 football.
This means deliberate heading will no longer form part of affiliated league, club or school matches from Under-7 through to Under-11. Heading will begin to be introduced as players move into the Under-12 age group and make the transition from primary to secondary-school football.
When a player deliberately heads the ball in an affected match, the opposition will normally be awarded an indirect free kick from the place where the header took place. Accidental contact between the ball and a player’s head is not treated in the same way.
The change is intended to reduce children’s exposure to heading while creating more opportunities for them to develop other technical skills. The FA has placed particular emphasis on ball mastery, passing, receiving, dribbling and learning how to make decisions in possession.
Throw-ins are also being replaced at the affected age groups by kick-ins and dribble-ins. These restarts should reduce the amount of time the ball spends in the air and encourage players to keep the game moving with the ball at their feet.
The FA’s training guidance states that heading should not be introduced during sessions for Under-7 to Under-11 players. At Under-12, limited and carefully controlled heading practice can begin, using light balls, short distances and very low repetition.
For young players, the message is simple: nobody is in trouble if the ball accidentally hits their head. Coaches and referees will help children understand the rule and learn the new restarts as part of their wider football development.
As with every rule change, it may take a little time to become familiar. By working together, coaches, players and parents can help make the transition smooth, positive and enjoyable.
