Direct and indirect free kicks explained
The difference between a direct and an indirect free kick, which offences produce each, how the referee signals them, and the rules that govern taking them.
The key difference
A free kick is awarded to restart play after a foul, and there are two kinds. From a direct free kick a player may score straight away by shooting into the opponents' goal. From an indirect free kick a goal cannot be scored directly; the ball must touch another player first before it goes in. That single distinction, whether you can shoot for goal immediately, is what separates the two types.
Which offences give which
Direct free kicks are given for the more physical or serious offences, such as kicking, tripping, pushing or charging an opponent, and for handball. Indirect free kicks are awarded for less tangible or technical offences, such as dangerous play, obstructing an opponent without contact, or a goalkeeper holding the ball too long. If a direct-free-kick foul happens inside the penalty area, it becomes a penalty instead.
How the referee signals
The referee shows which type has been given. For an indirect free kick, the referee raises one arm straight above the head and keeps it there until the kick is taken and the ball touches another player or goes out of play. For a direct free kick, the referee simply points in the direction of the kick without raising an arm. The raised arm is the clear signal that a shot straight into the goal will not count.
Taking the kick
For both types, the ball must be still before it is kicked, and opponents must retreat a set distance, forming the familiar defensive wall when the kick is near goal. From a direct free kick in a dangerous position, a team may shoot at goal or bend the ball around the wall. From an indirect one, they must play the ball to a teammate first, so these are often used as a quick pass to set up a shot.