Players on the Ground in Open Play
Players who are on the ground in open play must immediately release the ball and move away from it. Other players must not fall on or over them.
When a player ends up on the ground in open play — for example, by slipping, diving, or being pushed down — they have clear obligations to ensure play can continue fairly.
If you're on the ground with the ball: You must immediately let go of the ball and move away from it. You cannot keep possession by holding onto it while on the ground — you are "tackled without being tackled" in effect. Other players can immediately contest for the ball.
If you're on the ground without the ball: You must move away from the ball and out of the way of players who are trying to play it. You cannot use your body to obstruct players or prevent them from picking up or playing the ball.
Other players: It is illegal to fall on or over a player on the ground who already has the ball or who is near the ball. You must stay on your feet when contesting for the ball around a fallen player.
Why this matters: These rules are about safety and keeping the game flowing. If players could lie on the ball or sprawl in front of it, it would create dangerous piles and make it impossible to contest for possession.
Sanction: Penalty awarded to the non-offending team.
Real-World Examples
Scenario
A ball carrier trips and falls to the ground without being tackled. He stays on the ground, holding the ball and refusing to release it.
Outcome
Penalty to the non-offending team. A player who falls to the ground in open play must immediately release the ball and move away. He is not in a tackle, so he cannot simply hold the ball.
Scenario
An attacking player slips over during open play, gets up immediately, and continues running with the ball.
Outcome
Play continues. There is no infringement because the player got up immediately rather than staying on the ground. Law 13 only applies while the player is on the ground.
Scenario
A defender dives over a ball on the ground to prevent the opposition from picking it up.
Outcome
Penalty against the defender. Falling on or over the ball (or a player on the ground with the ball) is illegal. This is a deliberate obstruction and a penalty is awarded.
Scenario
A loose forward is on the ground near a breakdown and uses her arm to push the ball further away from the opponent who is reaching for it.
Outcome
Penalty against the loose forward. A player on the ground must not interfere with the ball in any way or prevent opponents from gaining possession.