THE GAME RULES
What is Drone Soccer?
Drone Soccer is a fast-paced team sport where players pilot drones inside an enclosed arena, combining skill, strategy, and aerial excitement.
The goal is to score points by flying your drone through the opponent’s net while defending your own.
The Objective
Explore the detailed rules covering gameplay, strategy, attacking, defending, substitutions, and more.
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Team Composition and Roles
Team Size
Each team is made up of five players, with each pilot controlling their own drone.
Roles - Striker
The primary player is the Striker, responsible for scoring by flying their drone through the opponent’s goal.
Roles - Defenders
Defenders focus on blocking the opposing striker and protecting their team’s goal.
Roles - Goalkeeper
Some teams designate a Goalkeeper, whose primary role is to block shots and intercept incoming drones to prevent goals.
Game Structure
Match Duration
Matches are played in two sets, each lasting four minutes, for a total match time of eight minutes.
Starting Play
Each set begins with all drones positioned in their designated starting zones. When the referee signals, players take off and the match begins immediately.
Scoring
A team scores by flying their Striker drone through the opponent’s goal (hoop) located at either end of the arena. After scoring, all drones must return to their team’s side before attempting another goal.
Gameplay Strategies
ATTACKING
Solo Play
The Striker aims to fly their drone swiftly and skilfully through the opponent’s goal. Success requires sharp turns, agile movement, and precise control.
Man-to-Man Marking
Each Defender should shadow an opposing attacker, restricting their movements and limiting scoring opportunities.
Interceptions
Focus on anticipating passes and intercepting flight paths to quickly regain control of the ball drone.
DEFENDING
Goalkeeper Role
The Goalkeeper’s role is to stop the opposing striker from reaching the goal area, using defensive manoeuvres to block shots and protect the net.
Defensive Positioning
Defenders must work together to form barriers and disrupt the opposing striker’s path. Controlling the pace of play and blocking passing lanes are key strategies for effective defence.
Preventative Interceptions
Defenders can block movements and prevent the striker from getting a clear shot at the goal.
SUBSTITUTIONS
In-Game Substitutions
Teams may substitute drones or players during a match. Substitutions are permitted if a drone is damaged, malfunctioning, or requires maintenance as long as they do not disrupt the flow of the game.
Strategic Substitutions
Substitutions can also be used strategically to rest players or adjust team formations based on the flow of the match.
DRONE SPECIFICATIONS
All matches must take place inside a protective arena to ensure safety and prevent damage.
Each drone’s weight, size, and battery capacity are regulated most weigh under 300 grams and feature a protective sphere with a diameter of approximately 200 mm.
FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS
Line of Sight
Pilots must keep their drones in clear sight at all times. The use of FPV (First-Person View) goggles or any device that obstructs direct visual contact is not allowed.
Altitude Limits
Drones must remain within the enclosed arena at all times during play.
PENALTIES & VIOLATIONS
COLLISION RULES
No Intentional Collisions
Players are not permitted to intentionally collide with opposing drones. Accidental contact may result in a minor penalty, while deliberate crashes can lead to disqualification or a time penalty.
Unfair Blocking
If a defender blocks an opponent in an unsafe way such as holding their drone in place to stop an attacker — it is considered unsportsmanlike conduct and may result in a penalty.
PENALTIES
Free Pass
If a rule is violated such as through an illegal block or causing a crash the offending team may receive a penalty, giving the opposing team a free scoring opportunity without interference.
Yellow/Red Cards
In professional leagues, players may receive yellow cards for minor offences and red cards for serious violations, which can result in a temporary suspension or disqualification from the match.
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CLASS 20 ARENA SPECIFICATIONS
Field Size
The game is usually played in a rectangular inflatable arena, approximately 8 metres long and 4 metres wide, with netting on all sides to keep drones safely contained during play.
Goal Size
Goals are large hoops suspended at each end of the arena, positioned about 2 metres above the ground, allowing drones to fly through to score points.
SAFETY & COMPLIANCE
Regulations
Players must follow all local aviation safety regulations, including those set by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in Saudi Arabia. This includes maintaining safe distances between drones and ensuring safe operation around players and spectators at all times.
Pre-Game Safety Checks
Before each match, all drones are inspected for damage, safety concerns, or faulty components. Players also participate in pre-flight briefings to review safety procedures and ensure responsible flying throughout the game.
WINNING THE MATCH
Victory Conditions
The team with the most goals at the end of the two sets wins the match. If the score is tied, extra time or a penalty round may be used to determine the winner.
Tiebraker
In the event of a tie, the match proceeds to a penalty shootout. Each team sends their Striker to attempt a goal under pressure, while only one opposing Goalkeeper drone remains on the field to defend.
Drone Soccer combines strategy, teamwork, and technical skill to create an exciting, fast-paced sport. Players must master precision flying, communicate effectively, and make quick decisions under pressure. With clear rules and structured gameplay, Drone Soccer ensures a fair and competitive environment for everyone involved.
FIDA WORLD CUP RULES
For those competing internationally, refer to the official FIDA World Cup Rules for full gameplay standards and competition guidelines.
Our Game in Numbers
2
TEAMS
10
PLAYERS
1
WINNER
DRONE SPECIFICATIONS
Innovative Design
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