Horseball

How competitions work

Each team has six players, four on the pitch at a time and two substitutes. The pitch is about 65 by 25 m, with a hoop goal about 1 m across set 3.5 m high at each end. Before shooting, a team must make at least three passes between three different players, and no one may hold the ball for more than 10 seconds. A dropped ball is picked up from the ground without dismounting. A game lasts two halves of 10 minutes, and the team with more goals wins.

Which horses take part

Any type of horse or pony can be used, from small ponies to full-size horses. What matters most is a brave, obedient horse that stays calm close to other horses.

Equipment

The ball is about the size of a football and has six leather handles. The horse wears a pick-up strap that links the stirrups under its belly so the rider can lean down for the ball; riders wear an approved helmet and a body protector, and the horse's legs are protected with boots or bandages.

Main competitions

The main competitions are the Horseball World Championship and the European Championship, plus the FIHB Champions League for clubs.

Equestrian events calendar →

How to start

Clubs in the UK take children from age eight, and competitions are split into age groups such as under-16 and under-21. Some riding experience is needed, and many clubs hire out horses and run taster days.

Riding clubs and stables →

Did you know?

Horseball was created near Bordeaux, France, by Jean-Paul Depons, a riding instructor and rugby player, who drew inspiration from the Argentine game of pato.