The rules of the game

Discover the Rules of Valencian Pilota at the Trinquet Pelayo

Valencian pilota is one of the most emblematic traditional sports of the Valencian Community, and the Trinquet Pelayo, located in Valencia, is the perfect setting to experience this historic game. If you want to learn how it’s played and understand its rules, here’s everything you need to know.

Basic Rules of Valencian Pilota

Valencian pilota is mainly played in two formats: direct style (or trinquet) and street play. While they share some principles, there are key differences in the rules and dynamics of each version.

1. Direct Style at the Trinquet

This is a direct game, meaning the number of bounces the ball makes before being returned does not matter.

• The teams face each other, one at each end of the trinquet.

• To start the match, the serve is made by bouncing the ball in the area called the dau and hitting it to the opposite end.

• The opposing team must return the ball after at most one bounce on the ground; if they fail, the serving team scores the point.

• If the serving team commits a fault, the point goes to the other team.

• Matches are generally played to five games, and in the trinquet there are professional players.

2. Street Play

In street play, the ball must bounce before the fault line, and subsequent bounces are not counted.

• There are no professional players in this version.

• Matches are played to eight games, and it’s considered a more informal and popular form of the sport.

3. Team Formation

Teams can be made up of 2 vs. 2, 3 vs. 2, or 3 vs. 3 players.

Each player has a specific position:

• Traure: the player farthest from the opposing team, responsible for serving.

• Mitger: the middle player, connecting plays between the traure and the punter.

• Punter: the most advanced player, responsible for finishing plays and scoring most of the points.

4. Objective of the Game

The main objective in Valencian pilota is to score points by making it impossible for the opposing team to return the ball correctly.
The game’s speed, the precision of serves, and the coordination among teammates make every match an exciting experience.

5. Tips for Beginners

If you want to try Valencian pilota at the Trinquet Pelayo:

• Watch professional matches first to learn movements and positioning.

• Get familiar with the dau area and the fault line.

• Practice coordination with your teammates, as well as serving and striking techniques.

Valencian pilota is a sport that combines tradition, skill, and strategy.
Visiting the Trinquet Pelayo and watching a live match is the best way to feel the excitement of this game, which is part of Valencia’s cultural heritage.