IHF reconsiders 7v6 rule, may test changes at 2027 youth worlds
IHF Council to review experiments in January 2027 after discussions in Cairo; Philippe Bana confirmed the topic is being debated.
The International Handball Federation (IHF) is examining changes to the widely used 7v6 tactic and may trial new rules at youth world championships in 2027, IHF officials have confirmed.
Why 7v6 is under review
Delegates and coaches who met recently in Cairo discussed whether the current option to play with seven attackers and no goalkeeper has distorted some tactical punishments, particularly two-minute exclusions. Philippe Bana, IHF first vice-president and president of the French Handball Federation, said the matter is being treated seriously within the federation.
Critics argue that removing the goalkeeper during an opponent's two-minute suspension allows the penalised team to restore seven attackers simply by withdrawing the goalkeeper, which reduces the intended advantage for the side that earned the exclusion.
Another concern raised at the meetings was the growing frequency of "empty-goal" situations that have changed how teams manage the closing seconds of attacks and altered end-of-possession tactics.
According to plans being discussed, the IHF Council will review proposals in January 2027 and could approve experimental trials of revised rules at the 2027 youth world championships. Any changes would be tested at youth level first before consideration for senior competitions.
No final decision has been made. If experimental trials are approved, the federation says 2027 could mark the start of the most significant modification to the 7v6 concept since the substitution of the goalkeeper by an extra court player was introduced.
Photo: press material from the event
