When is two-handed holding an exclusion foul?

Q: When is two-handed holding an exclusion foul?

Under Rule 7-8 (clarified for 2026-28): Using two hands to hold an opponent who is not holding the ball is an exclusion foul. If the opponent is holding the ball, the defender may hold with two hands, as long as the action is not overly aggressive or violent. Related: Rule 7-3-1c now has notes defining "control of the ball", the concept behind judgments on fouls, advantage, exclusions and goalkeeper privileges.

Question

Accepted Answer

Under Rule 7-8 (clarified for 2026-28):

Using two hands to hold an opponent who is not holding the ball is an exclusion foul.
If the opponent is holding the ball, the defender may hold with two hands, as long as the action is not overly aggressive or violent.

Related: Rule 7-3-1c now has notes defining "control of the ball", the concept behind judgments on fouls, advantage, exclusions and goalkeeper privileges.