Handboll

Handboll, known in English as handball, is a fast-paced indoor team sport played by two teams of seven players (six outfield players and a goalkeeper). The objective is to score by throwing the ball into the opponent’s goal more times than the other team within the match duration. The modern game is played on a rectangular court, typically 40 by 20 meters, with a goal at each end. Goals measure 3 by 2 meters, and a goal area around each end is restricted to the goalkeeper.

A standard match lasts 60 minutes, divided into two 30-minute halves with a break at halftime. At the highest levels, knockout rounds may include extra time or penalty shootouts according to competition rules. Teams can substitute players on the fly, and the game emphasizes fast transitions, positional play, and coordinated attacks, as well as organized defense. The ball is passed or dribbled; players may shoot from outside the 6-meter line, while the goal area (the 6-meter zone) is closed to field players, with the goalkeeper allowed to operate within it.

The sport is governed internationally by the International Handball Federation (IHF), with continental governance by the European Handball Federation (EHF). National federations, such as the Svenska Handbollförbundet in Sweden, administer domestic leagues and national teams. Major competitions include the Olympic Games, the IHF World Championships (men’s and women’s), and the European Championships, along with club competitions such as the EHF Champions League.

Handboll has several variants, including beach handball and outdoor field handball, reflecting its global reach and evolving formats.