Teqball changes its rules! How will these affect Thai athletes? Are Thailand’s signature moves being controlled?
On 17 Mar 2026 GMT+7, a hot topic emerged in the global teqball community as the International Teqball Federation (FITEQ) announced new competition rules, effective officially from 16 May 2026 GMT+7. These regulations are seen as controlling the aggressive playing style of Thai athletes, who have quickly risen to become the second top gold medalists in world championships after just three years of participation, trailing only Hungary by one medal.
Key changes include players having to switch serves every 2 points, and if the ball hits the table edge (Edgeball) during play, the point is replayed with the original serve order. Additionally, smashes that send the ball out of bounds are allowed no more than twice per set; exceeding this results in the point going to the opponent. The count resets at the start of each new set.
Rule 10.1.9 changes the serve rotation from every 4 serves per player per set to every 2 serves per player per set.
Rule 15.2.4 covers balls hitting the table edge (Edgeball) during play.
• If the ball hits the table edge after the first serve, the point must be replayed starting again with the first serve.
• If the ball hits the table edge after the second serve, the point must be replayed starting again with the second serve.
Rule 17 concerns smashes that send the ball outside the playing area (Smash Leaving the Field of Play).
17.1 Definitions
17.1.1 A smash is defined as an aggressive strike aimed forcefully at the opponent’s playing surface.
17.1.2 A smash is considered out of bounds if the ball leaves the competition area or touches surrounding areas before landing on the opponent’s playing surface.
17.2 Decision criteria
17.2.1 Singles players or doubles teams are allowed up to 2 smashes that send the ball out of bounds per set.
17.2.2 If smashes exceed the allowed number, the smash is deemed out and the opposing side is awarded the point.
17.2.3 The allowed number resets at the beginning of each new set.
A key point affecting Thai athletes directly is Rule 17 on smashes sending the ball out of bounds, which limits players to 2 such smashes per set; exceeding this results in immediate loss of point.
This rule is a significant setback for Thai athletes, whose style is rooted in sepak takraw, where their main tactic is a powerful 'foot smash' using the instep or side of the foot to force the ball out of bounds, making it hard for opponents to return. Limiting this to just 2 times per set forces Thai players to shift from their aggressive attacking style to more controlled ball placement within the table boundaries. This change favors European players who tend to have taller physiques and rely on solid defensive play.