Can a team protest in inline hockey?
A · Advanced · Results and officials · 2 of 2Two referees run each game; the lead referee has the final word on disputes and goals. A protest must be made on the floor by the captain to the referee, and confirmed in writing within an hour and a half. From 2027 referees may use video to check goals and missed injuries, and each team has two challenges.
How it works
- Referees: two; the lead referee's decision is final on facts.
- Off-floor officials: scorekeeper, timekeeper, penalty timekeeper, goal judges.
- Talking to referees: only the captain or an alternate on the floor.
- Protest: by the captain on the floor; administrative ones before the game.
- Confirmation: in writing within an hour and a half.
- Video review: goals and injuries the officials did not see.
- Team challenges: two a game, on goals and major or match penalties; kept if successful.
- Decision: by the on-floor referees; the original call stands without conclusive video.
The glossary has the referees (inline hockey), the protest (inline hockey), the video assistant referee (inline hockey), the World Skate Inline Hockey Technical Commission, the match penalty and the goal (inline hockey).
Tricky cases
Can a goalkeeper be captain on the floor?
No. A goalkeeper may not use the captain's privileges.
Is video review used in every game?
No. Only where it is affordable and certified officials are available.
A team's challenge succeeds. Does it keep it?
Yes. Only a failed challenge is lost.
Who settles a matter the rules do not cover?
The Inline Hockey Technical Commission, finally.
Why the rule exists
A single final authority settles disputes quickly. Limited challenges let teams fix big errors without stopping every play.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative protest | Before the game | Terminology |
| Video review | Not compulsory | IC 11.1.3 |
| Review time | About two minutes | IC 11.5.4 |
From the rule book
World Skate, Rulebook Inline Hockey 2027, Terminology and rules 3.1.2, 4.1, 4.2 and 9, with World Skate, Inline Hockey 2027 Rulebook Changes, rule 11. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the World Skate Inline Hockey Rulebook 2027.