Water Polo Pool Rules and Measures (Updated 2025)

1. Water Polo Pool Measurements (Updated 2025)

The water polo pool dimensions have been updated to better meet the demands of the game. Here are the key specifications according to the latest regulations (2025):

Pool Length:

• Total pool length : 25 meters . This measurement is now the distance between the goal lines , allowing for a more dynamic playing field.

Pool Width:

• Pool width : 20 meters . This width is the same in all water polo pools and provides the necessary space for players to move around.

Pool Depth:

• Minimum pool depth : 2 meters . This depth is sufficient to ensure players don't touch the bottom while swimming. In high-level competitions, it can reach up to 3 meters in certain sections of the pool, promoting more fluid play.

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2. Key Areas of the Water Polo Pool

Water polo pools are organized into several essential zones that structure the game:

• Goal Area (Goal): Each goal area is 3 meters wide, where the goalkeepers defend the goal. This area is delimited by the goal lines at both ends of the pool.
• Flying Substitution Zone: Along the length of the pool, there is a 1-meter-wide zone dedicated to quick player changes. Changes must be made quickly and without interrupting the flow of play.
• Ball Release Device: This device ensures that the ball is handled correctly at the start of the match or when there is an exclusion.

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3. Rules of the Game and the Pool

Based on the image provided, these are the main rules that apply in the water polo pool:

Match Duration:

• The match is divided into four quarters of eight minutes each. In the event of a tie at the end of regulation time, two extra periods of three minutes each are played. If the tie persists, the match will be resolved by penalty kicks .

Faults and Exclusions:

• When a player commits a serious foul , he is temporarily excluded for 20 seconds , leaving the team at a numerical disadvantage.

Ball Possession:

• After recovering the ball, the team has 30 seconds to shoot at goal. If they fail, possession passes to the opposing team.

Do not set foot on the bottom:

• Players are not allowed to touch the bottom of the pool during the game. They must stay afloat at all times, making this sport particularly demanding in terms of physical endurance.

Goal area:

• Players may only be inside the goal area when taking a shot at goal. Any other player inside the area without the ball will be penalized.

Launch Device:

• The ball release device ensures that the ball is handled correctly at the start of play or after a suspension, thus facilitating the organization of the match.

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4. Pool Specifications

The water polo pool also includes other specifications related to the use of the playing area:

• Referee Zone: The referees are located on a raised platform, 1 meter wide , outside the pool, which allows them to have a clear view of all plays.
• Timing: The timing system includes shot counting and possession timers to ensure each team meets the established time limits for shooting at goal.
• Substitution Platform: Substituted players may enter and exit the pool quickly from a platform located 1 meter above the water level .