How long are matches, and do we stop time after a goal?

Question

Accepted Answer

FIH default (Rule 5.1, 2026): four quarters of 15 minutes with a 10-minute half-time. Competition regulations can set other timings. England Hockey's 2026/27 timings: Competition Match length England Hockey League (all divisions) 4 x 17 min 30 s quarters, 2-minute quarter-time breaks, 5-10 minute half-time (agreed before the game) Area League Premier 4 x 17 min 30 s quarters, 2-minute quarter-time breaks, 5-minute half-time Area League other divisions 2 x 35-minute halves, 5-minute half-time Junior Under 16 and Under 18 (full length) 2 x 35-minute halves, 5-10 minute half-time; or, if both teams agree in advance, 4 x 17 min 30 s Junior Under 14 (full length) 2 x 30-minute halves; or, if agreed, 4 x 15-minute quarters Other competitions As set by that competition's regulations Stopping time after a goal or penalty corner (new FIH Rules 8.2 and 13.3 a): this does not apply by default in England Hockey competitions. Other new rule (11.8): if the ball hits an umpire or unauthorised person on the field, play continues. If it gives one team an advantage, restart with a bully.

Competition	Match length
England Hockey League (all divisions)	4 x 17 min 30 s quarters, 2-minute quarter-time breaks, 5-10 minute half-time (agreed before the game)
Area League Premier	4 x 17 min 30 s quarters, 2-minute quarter-time breaks, 5-minute half-time
Area League other divisions	2 x 35-minute halves, 5-minute half-time
Junior Under 16 and Under 18 (full length)	2 x 35-minute halves, 5-10 minute half-time; or, if both teams agree in advance, 4 x 17 min 30 s
Junior Under 14 (full length)	2 x 30-minute halves; or, if agreed, 4 x 15-minute quarters
Other competitions	As set by that competition's regulations