When is a penalty corner awarded, and when is a penalty stroke awarded instead?

A penalty corner is awarded (Rule 12.3):

• for an offence by a defender in the circle which does not prevent the probable scoring of a goal
• for an intentional offence in the circle by a defender against an opponent who does not have possession of the ball or an opportunity to play the ball
• for an intentional offence by a defender outside the circle but within the 23-metres area they are defending
• for a defender intentionally playing the ball over the back-line (goalkeepers may deflect the ball with their stick, protective equipment or any part of their body in any direction, including over the back-line)
• when the ball becomes lodged in a player's clothing or equipment while in the circle they are defending.

A penalty stroke is awarded instead (Rule 12.4):

• for an offence by a defender in the circle which prevents the probable scoring of a goal
• for an intentional offence in the circle by a defender against an opponent who has possession of the ball or an opportunity to play the ball.

Advantage applies: a penalty is awarded only when a player or team has been disadvantaged by an opponent breaking the Rules (Rule 12.1).

Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2026.