The IBSA Goalball Subcommittee is announcing changes to paragraphs 49.6 and 49.7 of the 2014-2017 rules.  These changes are required to align the rules for the 2016 Paralympic Games competition format with the competition format approved by the International Paralympic Committee.  These changes will become effective 60 days from the date of this posting.

49.6  Format for Men's Paralympic Competition

Teams will be equally divided into two pools.  In each pool, a single round robin system will be used. 

At the conclusion of the round robin, the top four teams from each pool will play against each other in a single elimination format.  A1 vs B4, B2 vs A3 (winners advance to semi-final 1), B1 vs A4, A2 vs B3 (winners advance to semi-final 2).  The losers will be eliminiated from the competition.  The winners of the two semi-final matches will play for the championship.  The losers of the two semi-final matches will play for third and fourth place respectively.

49.7 Format for Women's Paralympic Competition

At the conclusion of the round robin, the top four teams from each pool will play against each other in a single elimination format.  C1 vs D4, D2 vs C3 (winners advance to semi-final 1), D1 vs C4, C2 vs D3 (winners advance to semi-final 2).  The losers will be eliminated from the competition.  The winners of the two semi-final matches will play for the championship.  The losers of the two semi-final matches will play for third and fourth place respectively. 

Please direct any questions or comments to the IBSA Goalball Subcommittee.

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