What format, pitch and goal size does each age group use in 2026/27?

Question

Accepted Answer

From 2026/27 (The FA's FutureFit changes), the Standard Code of Rules sets these maximums: Age group School year Max format Pitch (min to max, metres) Goals Ball Under 8 Year 3 5v5 27 x 18 to 37 x 27 12ft x 6ft Size 3 Under 9 Year 4 5v5 27 x 18 to 37 x 27 12ft x 6ft Size 3 Under 10 Year 5 7v7 46 x 27 to 55 x 37 12ft x 6ft Size 3 Under 11 Year 6 7v7 46 x 27 to 55 x 37 12ft x 6ft Size 3 Recommended pitch sizes are the maximums (37 x 27 m for 5v5, 55 x 37 m for 7v7), plus at least 3 m run-off. These formats are maximums: children must not play in a match with more players a side than their age group allows, but smaller formats are allowed. All four age groups have a goalkeeper and a referee, and play with no offside, pass-ins or dribble-ins instead of throw-ins, a retreat line and no deliberate heading. Note the change from previous seasons: Under 9s now play 5v5, and Under 11s play 7v7 rather than 9v9.

Age group	School year	Max format	Pitch (min to max, metres)	Goals	Ball
Under 8	Year 3	5v5	27 x 18 to 37 x 27	12ft x 6ft	Size 3
Under 9	Year 4	5v5	27 x 18 to 37 x 27	12ft x 6ft	Size 3
Under 10	Year 5	7v7	46 x 27 to 55 x 37	12ft x 6ft	Size 3
Under 11	Year 6	7v7	46 x 27 to 55 x 37	12ft x 6ft	Size 3