What is the 40 second rule in wheelchair rugby?
I · Intermediate · Violations · 3 of 4A team in possession has 40 seconds to score and 12 seconds to get the ball out of its backcourt. An attacker may spend at most 8 seconds in the opponents' key, and the ball carrier must bounce or pass every 8 seconds. Breaking any of these limits is a violation, giving the ball to the other team.
How it works
- 40 seconds: to score a try.
- Clock resets: on each new possession.
- 12 seconds: to reach the frontcourt.
- 8 seconds: in the opponents' key.
- 8 seconds: between dribbles.
- Penalty: loss of possession.
- Operator: a forty second operator at the table.
- Count stops: when the opponents take possession.
The glossary has the forty second violation, the twelve second violation, the eight seconds in the key, the eight second dribble violation, the backcourt and frontcourt (wheelchair rugby) and the officials (wheelchair rugby).
Tricky cases
Does the 40-second clock reset after a foul?
It restarts on each new possession.
Can an attacker sit in the key all game?
No. 8 seconds at most.
Can defenders stay in their key?
Yes, but no more than three.
Who runs the 40-second clock?
The forty second operator.
Why the rule exists
Time limits stop a team holding the ball to protect a lead.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| To score | 40 seconds | 83 |
| Backcourt | 12 seconds | 75 |
| Key | 8 seconds | 80 |
From the rule book
World Wheelchair Rugby, International Wheelchair Rugby Rules (1 April 2026), rules 52, 75, 79, 80 and 83. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Wheelchair Rugby International Rules, April 2026.