How does a wheelchair rugby game start?
I · Intermediate · The game · 1 of 4A game is four 8-minute periods on a stopping clock, with 3-minute overtimes if tied. It starts with a tip-off in the centre circle; after that, possession alternates at the start of periods and after held balls. Play restarts with a throw-in from out of bounds, released and touched within 8 seconds. Each team has three 60-second time-outs a half.
How it works
- Periods: four of 8 minutes.
- Overtime: 3 minutes, as needed.
- Tip-off: start and each overtime.
- Alternating possession: periods two to four, held balls.
- Throw-in: 8 seconds to release and touch.
- After a try: from the end line.
- Time-outs: three per half, 60 seconds.
- Substitutions: any number at stoppages.
The glossary has the tip-off, the alternating possession (wheelchair rugby), the throw-in (wheelchair rugby), the held ball (wheelchair rugby), the time-outs (wheelchair rugby) and the substitution (wheelchair rugby).
Tricky cases
The ball is stuck between two chairs. Result?
A held ball; alternating possession.
Can a team substitute right after a try?
Not unless there is another stoppage.
Do unused first-half time-outs carry over?
No.
Can a penalised player be replaced?
No.
Why the rule exists
A stopping clock and short periods keep the game intense. Alternating possession settles disputes quickly.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Start | Tip-off | 60 |
| Restarts | Throw-in | 69 |
| Time-outs | Three per half | 56 |
From the rule book
World Wheelchair Rugby, International Wheelchair Rugby Rules (1 April 2026), rules 50, 56, 58 to 62, 69 to 71 and 109. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Wheelchair Rugby International Rules, April 2026.