Pétanque rules
Here, everyone plays pétanque on equal terms. Amateurs can challenge professionals, the rules are simple, and pétanque can be played in any outfit – a very inclusive sport.
Pétanque is best played the French way, where people socialise around the game, eat and drink well. A relaxed way to meet both old and new friends.
Quick guide
TEAMS
In pétanque, two teams always compete. Triples is three against three with two boules each, doubles is two against two with three boules each, and singles is one against one with three boules each.
PLAYERS
A pétanque player is always kind. Bad-tempered players get a red card.
COURTS
A pétanque court is 12 to 20 metres long. The surface is gravel. At Prins Bertil’s, the gravel has been treated with a touch of paraffin oil — no dust in the air!
THE CIRCLE
All players must stand in the circle when throwing their boules — ideally a 50 cm circle drawn in the gravel with the toe. Stepping out of the circle before the boule has landed is a no-no.
BOULES
An optimal boule weighs between 680 and 720 grams. Choose one that feels comfortable in your hand. Children are best off using junior boules.
THE JACK
The target ball, a small wooden ball, 35 mm in diameter.
CARREAU
When a player’s boule hits another player’s boule so that they swap positions. Impressive!
PASTIS
The winners buy the losers a glass of pastis. That’s just how it is. A pétanque player is always kind!
RULES
In pétanque, 13 is a lucky number. The jack is thrown between 6 and 10 metres, and at least half a metre away from any obstacles (walls, trees, people…).
Which team starts? Draw lots! Always play from the circle. The first player throws their boule as close to the jack as possible. Then it’s the opponent’s turn to step into the circle and try to get closer or knock the jack or boule away.
After each throw, the closest boule to the jack is determined — often with a measuring tape. The team with the worst position continues throwing until they are closest to the jack.