Bubble football, also called bubble bump football by some, takes everything serious about football and throws it out the window. You strap on an inflatable suit, bounce off other players, and somehow try to score goals while laughing uncontrollably.
It’s the sport where professional athletes and complete beginners look equally silly, and that’s the whole point.
This article explains everything you need to know about this wonderfully ridiculous game.
Bubble Football Rules
Bubble football follows similar rules to regular football, but the giant inflatable suits create a unique twist that makes the game more about fun than serious competition. Players compete in teams to score goals while bouncing, rolling, and colliding with opponents in a safe and hilarious way.
Each team typically consists of five players, though games can accommodate anywhere from three to eleven players per side, depending on the field size. There are no set positions, such as goalkeeper or striker, so players move freely around the pitch.
| Rule Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Game Duration | Two halves of 5-10 minutes each, with a 5-minute halftime break. |
| Starting Play | The ball is placed at center field, and teams line up 10-20 feet away (not at baseline). |
| Scoring | Goals can be scored from anywhere on the field using any body part except the hands. |
| Physical Contact | Only bumping allowed — no pushing or shoving. Contact only from the front or the side. |
| Safety Rules | Players on the ground must be allowed to stand up before contact. No hitting from behind. |
| Fouls & Penalties | Yellow cards for dangerous play. Three yellows equal a red card and ejection. |
| Equipment Violations | No cleats, spikes, jewelry, or sharp objects allowed. |
| Out of Bounds | Play continues even when the ball goes out, unless near spectators. |
The referees carry extra balls to keep the play moving when the ball travels far out of bounds. They simply roll a new ball into play and call “play on” to continue the action.
What Do You Need to Play Bubble Football?
Getting started with bubble football requires specific equipment and preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The most important piece of equipment is the bubble ball itself.
If someone has a question lingering in their head: What is bubble ball? It’s a large bubble suit, made from durable TPU or PVC plastic with two layers connected by ropes. Each suit weighs about 100 kilograms and takes 40 hours to manufacture by hand.
The standard adult bubble measures 1.55 meters in height and completely covers the upper body and head, while leaving the legs free for movement. However, some providers offer different bubble sizes to accommodate children, adults, and larger adults (up to 159 kg).
In the table, you will find all the other equipment needed for a fun bubble football game.
| Equipment | Description | Required |
|---|---|---|
| Football | A standard soccer ball works perfectly, with referees keeping two to three balls ready. | Essential |
| Goals | Portable football goals or cones to mark goal areas. | Essential |
| Playing Surface | Natural or synthetic grass fields work best. Avoid asphalt, concrete, or sandy surfaces. | Essential |
| Athletic Clothing | Comfortable sportswear, such as tracksuit bottoms and t-shirts. | Essential |
| Proper Footwear | Tennis shoes or turf shoes only. Football boots and cleats are strictly prohibited for safety reasons. | Essential |
| Safety Gear | Knee pads are recommended for indoor play, while shin guards are optional. | Optional |
| Venue | Indoor sports halls, outdoor pitches, or any flat grassy area measuring at least 20×30 meters. | Essential |
Additional helpful items include water bottles for hydration, towels for cleaning bubbles after use, and a first aid kit for minor scrapes and cuts.
How to Play Bubble Football?
Playing bubble football begins with proper preparation and an understanding of the unique movements inside an inflatable sphere.
1. Put on Your Bubble Suit
Pull the bubble suit on like a backpack, sliding your arms through the shoulder straps. Just ensure the straps are fastened snugly but comfortably. The bubble should sit evenly on your shoulders with your head protected inside the upper opening. You can grab the internal handles for extra stability.
2. Get Familiar with Movement
Before the game starts, practice walking and running in your bubble. Take wider steps than usual to maintain balance. Also, try gentle bumps with other players to understand how the bubble absorbs impact. Practice getting up from the ground, as you’ll need this skill during the game.
3. Line Up for Kickoff
Unlike traditional football, bubble football starts with both teams lined up in their respective halves. Space yourself evenly across the field, maintaining a distance of 10-20 feet from the center. The referee will then place the ball in the middle of the pitch.
4. Charge at the Whistle
When the referee blows the whistle, the two players closest to the ball from each team rush toward it. Remember that you don’t have to hold back — the bubbles protect you.
5. Master the Ball Control
Kicking the ball requires extra concentration since the bubble partially blocks your view. Look down through the opening to spot the ball, then use short, controlled kicks. Long passes rarely work well because running speed is limited.
6. Communicate Constantly
Your peripheral vision is severely limited inside the bubble, making teamwork the most important aspect of the game. Call out positions, warn teammates of incoming collisions, and coordinate attacks verbally to ensure effective teamwork. Short and clear commands work best in the bubble football game.
7. Embrace the Chaos
Accept that you’ll fall, roll, and end up upside down frequently. When knocked down, use the momentum to roll back to your feet or wait for a clear moment to stand.
8. Work as a Team
Since there are no set positions, create informal roles during play. Some players focus on defense near your goal, while others push forward to create scoring chances. Designate someone to call out tactics, and use your bubbles to block opponents from the ball.
9. Score and Celebrate
Without designated goalkeepers, scoring requires teamwork and timing. Create space by bumping defenders away, then have a teammate take the shot.
Bubble Football Historical Overview
Bubble football developed from zorbing — the sport of rolling downhill inside giant inflatable balls.
The concept began in 1994 when New Zealanders Andrew Akers and Dwane van der Sluis invented the modern zorb. They originally wanted to walk on water but discovered rolling downhill worked better. They opened the first commercial zorbing site in Rotorua, New Zealand, in 1995, and the activity spread worldwide as tourists brought the idea home.
The transformation to bubble football occurred in 2011 when Norwegian comedians Henrik Elvestad and Johan Golden introduced it on their TV show, Golden Goal. They modified the zorb equipment to allow for horizontal play instead of rolling downhill.
The sport remained relatively unknown until April 2014, when an Italian bubble football video went viral. Within a week, millions of people were searching for bubble football online. The sport had exploded overnight from a Norwegian TV joke to a global phenomenon.
Growth continued rapidly. The National Association of Bubble Soccer was formed in the United States in 2015, and it appeared on Shark Tank. The first Bubble Football World Cup took place in London in 2018, with international teams competing at Wembley Stadium.
Bubble Football Leagues and Competitions
While bubble football remains mostly recreational, some organized competitions have been held for players wanting structured tournaments. The sport’s focus on fun over serious competition makes formal leagues rare but not impossible.
The Bubble Football World Cup 2018 (London)
The first official World Championship took place on May 19-20, 2018. Sixteen teams from countries such as Brazil, Germany, and Ireland competed over two days, finishing in finals at Wembley Stadium. England held qualifying rounds in Shoreditch, where teams paid £200 to enter.
National Association of Bubble Soccer (NABS)
Formed in 2015 in the United States, NABS created safety standards and official rules for bubble soccer. The commissioner appeared on Shark Tank for publicity but was unable to establish ongoing leagues. Most of the bubble football stayed focused on party rentals rather than regular competition.
Regional Tournaments and Charity Events
Local championships, university competitions, and corporate tournaments offer competitive play without the need for formal leagues. These events occur annually in many cities, and operators provide equipment and referees for one-day tournaments that are more effective than season-long leagues.
Similar Sports to Bubble Bump Football
Bubble football’s flexibility allows for creative game variations that keep events exciting and accommodate different group sizes. While traditional bubble football matches are always fun, other alternative games add variety and often even more laughter.
Each variation uses the same bubble suits but creates completely different experiences, from team challenges to individual competitions.
| Game Variation | How to Play | Best For | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bubble Bowling | One player charges at others standing as human pins. | Large groups, all ages | |
| Bubble Sumo | Two players try to push each other out of a circle. | One-on-one competition | |
| Bulldog | Chaser knocks down crossing players, who then join the chase. | Building excitement | |
| Last Bubble Standing | Everyone knocks each other down until one remains | Quick elimination game | |
| King of the Hill | Teams protect their king while attacking the opponent’s. | Strategic team play | |
| Bubble Relay | Teams race through obstacles while controlling a ball. | Skill challenges | |
| Red Light, Green Light | Players freeze on command while others try knockdowns. | Younger players | |
| Musical Bubbles | Rush to designated spots when the music stops. | Party atmosphere |
Most games last 5-10 minutes each, allowing groups to try multiple variations during a single event. The best part is that rules can be adjusted on the fly to match the group’s level and preferences.
Playing Bubble Football at Different Events
Bubble football adapts perfectly to various occasions, making it a popular choice for events ranging from birthday parties to corporate gatherings. Its appeal comes from creating shared laughter regardless of age or athletic ability.
Corporate Team Building
Companies love bubble football because it levels the playing field between departments and hierarchy levels. The activity encourages communication, teamwork, and stress relief, allowing executives and employees to participate equally. Sessions typically accommodate 10-100+ participants with flexible formats.
Birthday Parties and Celebrations
Children’s parties (for ages five and up) feature simplified rules and shorter games, while adult celebrations often include tournaments and more competitive games. The game is also popular for events such as bachelor’s and bachelorette parties.
School and Youth Events
Schools use bubble football as a fun alternative to traditional sports. Students who usually avoid physical activities often participate enthusiastically when protected by bubbles. The sport promotes exercise without intimidation.
Public Events and Festivals
Bubble football attracts crowds at festivals with its visual appeal. Pop-up fields remain open throughout the day, allowing anyone to join in at any time.
What is Included in Bubble Football Event Packages?
Professional companies provide complete services, usually including things like:
- Equipment delivery and setup.
- Safety briefings and trained referees.
- Multiple game variations.
- 60-90 minute sessions.
The prices of the bubble football packages can range from $15 to $30 per person. However, the all-inclusive packages remove planning stress and ensure successful events.
Bubble Football Bottom Line
Bubble football demonstrates that sports don’t need to be taken seriously to be successful. By adding giant bubbles to regular football, anyone can play, regardless of their skill or fitness level.
The game spread from a Norwegian TV show to become popular worldwide because people want activities that make them laugh. Whether it’s bosses playing with workers or kids playing with adults, bubble football brings people together through fun and laughter.
Sometimes, the best sports are those where falling is part of the game.
FAQs on Bubble Football
No, bubble football is designed to be safe with protective inflatable suits absorbing impacts and strict rules preventing dangerous contact.
A bubble is a large inflatable suit made from durable TPU or PVC plastic that covers your upper body and head while leaving your legs free to run.
Yes, bubble football is safe when played according to proper rules, with trained referees, and on suitable surfaces, such as grass fields.
Main rules include no hitting from behind, allowing fallen players to stand before contact, and only bumping from the front or sides.
Yes, bubble football prioritizes laughter and entertainment over competition, making it enjoyable for all ages and skill levels.
Minor risks include light bruises, grazes, or scrapes from falling, but serious injuries are rare due to the protective bubbles.
Wear comfortable athletic clothing, such as tracksuit bottoms and t-shirts, with tennis shoes or turf shoes. Just remember that cleats and jewelry are not allowed.
Benefits include team building, stress relief, exercise without intimidation, and breaking down social barriers through shared laughter.
Children aged five and older can play bubble football, with special youth-sized bubbles available for smaller players.
You need bubble suits, a football, goals or cones, a grass field, proper footwear, and ideally a trained referee.
Players must be at least 1.5 meters tall to fit safely in standard bubble suits.