What is a penalty ball in boccia?
I · Intermediate · Violations · 4 of 4A retraction removes a ball released in violation, such as before the colour is shown. A penalty ball gives the opponent an extra ball after the end, at the 35 cm target box, scoring a point if it stops inside without touching the line. Some faults, like touching a line at release, bring both.
How it works
- Retraction: the ball is removed.
- Examples: early release, assistant touching, two balls.
- Penalty ball: an extra ball for the opponent.
- Target: the 35 cm box.
- Point: inside, not touching the line.
- Time: one minute.
- Both: line touches, ramp overhang, no buttock on seat.
- Both sides: violations do not cancel.
The glossary has the retraction, the penalty ball, the retraction and penalty ball, the target box, the releasing a ball and the two-way swing.
Tricky cases
Both sides earn penalty balls. Do they cancel?
No. Both are played.
A ball stops on the target box line. Point?
No.
A BC3 operator releases the ball. Result?
A retraction.
An athlete lifts off the seat to throw. Result?
Retraction and a penalty ball.
Why the rule exists
Retraction undoes an illegal shot; the penalty ball adds a cost. Together they keep the playing area and release clean.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Release faults | Retraction | 16.5 |
| Conduct faults | Penalty ball | 16.6 |
| Line or seat faults | Both | 16.7 |
From the rule book
World Boccia, International Sport Rules 2025-2028 (version 1.2.1, April 2026), rules 16.1, 16.2 and 16.5 to 16.7. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Boccia International Sport Rules 2025-2028.