CP Football athlete
Our Sports
CP Football
Introduction

The Beautiful Game, Adapted

CP Football is a 7-a-side version of football for athletes with cerebral palsy, stroke or acquired brain injury. South African players have represented the country at international tournaments, and the sport continues to develop through provincial leagues and national selection events.

How the Sport Works

Format, Class & Rules

CP Football keeps the spirit of the game while adapting it for athletes with cerebral palsy. From the size of the squad to the laws of the match, every detail is built to create a fast, fair and open contest.

Format

Seven-A-Side

Seven-a-side on a smaller pitch with shorter halves — 30 minutes per half — and no offside rule, creating a fast, open attacking game.

30 min halves
Classification

FT1 to FT3

Players are classified FT1–FT3 based on the extent of their condition, with at least one FT1 player required on the pitch at all times.

FT1 required
Rules

Adapted Laws

Most football rules apply, with allowances for underarm throw-ins and adapted equipment where needed.

Underarm throw-ins
Paralympic Heritage

Football, For Every Foot

CP Football has been on the Paralympic programme since 1984. South Africa fields national squads through SASAPD's selection structures, with players developing through provincial and club programmes.

7-a-side
Match format
1984
Paralympic debut
FT1–FT3
Classification range
Our Sponsors

Our Proud Sponsors

Our partners power South African CP Football. From grassroots to Paralympic podiums.

National Lotteries Commission
Toyota
South African Department of Sport, Arts & Culture