What is the difference between a defended and undefended Penalty 3?

Both versions of an outdoor Penalty 3 start from the middle of the 40-yard line with the opponents beyond the back line and outside the goal. Undefended, they cannot enter the field at all; defended, they may enter after the ball is struck or attempted — but not through the goalmouth.

Applies to: outdoor polo.

Undefended, the fouled team gets one strike or attempted strike and cannot interfere further. Defended, the fouled team cannot play the ball again until an opponent has struck or attempted it, or it touches a post, an opposing player or a horse.

The fouled team must remain behind the 40-yard line until the ball is struck or attempted.

Organizers must announce before the event that defended Penalty 3s will be used; it is only available where the upper handicap limit is at least eight goals, with two certified professional umpires unless USPA Umpires LLC approves otherwise.

Based on the USPA 2026 rulebook, Outdoor Rule 37, Penalty 3, p.105. Read the official rules at uspolo.org. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the USPA.