How long is a match, and when is time stopped?

Match length (Rule 5.1). A match is four quarters of 15 minutes, with a 2-minute interval between quarters 1 and 2 and between quarters 3 and 4, and a 10-minute half-time interval between quarters 2 and 3. The 2026 edition set half-time at 10 minutes.

Agreeing otherwise. Other durations of periods and intervals may be agreed by both teams, except as specified in Regulations for particular competitions. Unless otherwise specified, teams may also agree not to stop the time after a goal or the award of a penalty corner.

Time stopped. Time and play are stopped after a goal is awarded (Rule 8.2) and after a penalty corner is awarded (Rule 13.3 a), and restart when the teams are ready. Umpires also whistle to stop the match for the substitution of a fully equipped goalkeeper onto or off the field, and to stop it for any other reason (Rule 11.6).

Result. The team scoring the most goals wins. If no goals are scored, or the teams score equal goals, the match is drawn (Rule 5.2).

Late decisions. If time expires just before an umpire would otherwise have made a decision, the umpire may make that decision immediately after the end of the quarter.

Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2026.