Football pitch sizes can vary widely depending on the age group concerned, the level of the game, and the type of match being played. However, rules and regulations about the size of a football pitch are stipulated by governing bodies, such as FIFA, IFAB, and the FA.
If you are curious about football pitch sizes, whether for professional matches or youth games, this guide explains it all, providing dimensions and explanations. Read on to learn more about football pitch sizes.
Key facts about football pitch sizes
- What is a football pitch size in metres? A football pitch is 100 x 64 metres (110 x 70 yards) for professional senior matches under the FA.
- What are Premier League football pitch sizes? Most Premier League pitches are about 115 yards (105 m) x 74 yards (68 m).
- How many square metres is a football pitch? Senior pitches are between 4,050 and 10,800 square metres, depending on the length and width.
- How long is a football pitch in feet? A standard full-size football pitch is about 330 feet long.
Football pitch regulations: Who sets the standards?
Various governing bodies regulate football pitch dimensions, depending on the location. In England, the FA provides recommendations for football pitch sizes for different levels of the game.
FIFA and IFAB provide the guidelines for professional international matches, such as those at World Cups and other global tournaments.
Standard football pitch dimensions for professional and adult matches
In England, senior 11-a-side football pitches follow FA regulations, which allow for some wiggle room but provide guidelines for teams to follow.
The official pitch size ranges for full-sized matches:
- FA recommended pitch size for senior football: 100 x 64 metres (110 x 70 yards)
- FIFA recommended pitch size for senior football: 105 x 68 metres (115 x 74 yards)
Football pitch sizes for youth age groups
Under-7 and Under-8 (5-a-side football)
At under-7s and under-8s, five-a-side football is played on small pitches to encourage more ball time for players and promote their development.
- Pitch size: 40 x 30 yards (length x width)
- Goal size: 12 x 6 feet (width x height)
- Ball size: Size 3 football
Diamond offers a range of size 3 footballs and 12 x 6 feet goals.
Under-9 and Under-10 (7-a-side football)
Under-9s and under-10s play 7-a-side football on small pitches that are a bit larger than under-7s and under-8s.
- Pitch size: 60 X 40 yards (length x width)
- Goal size: 12 x 6 feet (width x height)
- Ball size: Size 3 football
As with under-7s and under-8s, Diamond offers a range of size 3 footballs and 12 x 6 feet goals for under-9 and under-10 football.
Under-11 and Under-12 (9-a-side football)
Under-11s and under-12 progress to 9-aside football and play on a more expansive pitch than younger age groups.
- Pitch size: 80 x 50 yards (length x width)
- Goal size: 16 x 7 feet (width x height)
- Ball size: Size 4 football
Diamond offers a range of size 4 footballs and a 16 x 7 feet goal.
Under-13 and Under-14 (11-a-side football)
At the under-13 and under-14 levels, players begin playing full 11-a-side matches but on smaller pitches than at the senior level.
- Pitch size: 90 x 55 yards (length x width)
- Goal size: 21 x 7 feet(width x height)
- Ball size: Size 4 football
Diamond has size 4 footballs available for this age group. It should be noted that it is permissible for under-13s and under-14s to play with full-size football goals (24 x 8 feet).
Under-15 and under-16 (11-a-side football)
At under-15 and under-16, games are played on slightly smaller pitches than full-size senior pitches. Matches are now played with full-size goals and balls.
- Pitch size: 100 x 60 yards (length x width)
- Goal size: 24 x 8 feet (width x height)
- Ball size: Size 5 football
Diamond has a range of size 5 footballs and full-size football goals (24 x 8 feet) available.
Under-17 and under-18 (11-a-side football)
Under-17s and under-18s play on full-size pitches, just as at senior level, preparing them to join adult-level games when ready.
- Pitch size: 110 x 70 yards (length x width)
- Goal size: 24 x 8 feet (width x height)
- Ball size: Size 5 football
As with under-15s and under-16s, Diamond has size 5 footballs and full-size football goals (24 x 8 feet) available to purchase.
Small-sided football pitch dimensions
- 5-a-side football pitch: 40 x 30 yards
- 7-a-side football pitch: 60 X 40 yards
- 9-a-side football pitch: 80 x 50 yards
- Futsal pitch sizes: 31 x 16 metres (FA National Futsal League), 38 x 18 metres (International Futsal)
Key areas of a football pitch and their dimensions
- Centre Circle Radius: 9.15m (10 yards).
- Penalty Area: 18 yards x 44 yards.
- Goal Area: 6 yards x 20 yards.
- Penalty Spot: 12 yards from the goal line.
- Corner Arc Radius: 1m (1 yard).
How pitch size affects gameplay
The size of a football pitch can impact gameplay in several ways, which is why different sizes are selected for various age groups and levels.
For example, large pitches encourage long-distance passing and provide more expansive gameplay, but more stamina is required of the players, which younger players can struggle with.
On the other hand, smaller pitches promote quick, short passing, fast-paced gameplay and encourage players to develop key skills like ball control, dribbling, and confidence.
A pitch for all levels of the game
As you can see, football pitches come in various sizes, tailored to suit the age group of those playing. Football must be played on appropriately sized pitches to allow for the best performance possible and to encourage player development.
We encourage you to check out the range of football training equipment available at Diamond Football. We have products for all pitch sizes and age groups, including goals, footballs, and corner flags.
