How do you know whose turn it is in boccia?
B · Beginner · Playing an end · 4 of 5After the first ball, the other side plays until it has the closest ball or runs out. From then on the side not closest plays next. The referee shows the colour with a paddle. If balls are equidistant, the side that threw last plays again. Balls out of bounds are dead.
How it works
- After the first ball: the other side plays.
- Then: the side not closest plays.
- Out of balls: the other side plays on.
- Paddle: shows which colour plays.
- Equidistant: the last side to throw plays again.
- Out of bounds: dead ball.
- Dropped behind the line: replay.
- Stay clear: non-playing side out of the way.
The glossary has the which side plays next, the equidistant balls, the dead ball and out of bounds, the dropped ball, the colour indicator and the out of the way.
Tricky cases
A ball rolls out and back in. In play?
No. Touching the boundary makes it out.
A ball slips from the hand before gripping. Replay?
Yes. It is returned.
Who plays when two balls tie for closest?
The side that played last, then alternately.
Can the opponent move into the court during the other's turn?
No. They stay out of the way.
Why the rule exists
Letting the losing side play keeps each end a contest. The paddle tells everyone, including athletes with communication needs, whose turn it is.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Not closest | Plays next | 10.7 |
| Equidistant | Last thrower again | 10.13 |
| Dropped ball | Replay, time runs | 10.14 |
From the rule book
World Boccia, International Sport Rules 2025-2028 (version 1.2.1, April 2026), rules 3.4 and 10.6 to 10.14. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Boccia International Sport Rules 2025-2028.