Head-scratching rulebooks
Why sumo wrestlers can’t drive—plus 9 more weird sports rules
Published on April 28, 2026
Image: Nathan Shively
Sports are full of strange rules—some meant to prevent chaos, others just plain bizarre. From bans on fake beards to strict limits on chess players' bathroom breaks, these odd regulations often have surprising reasons behind them. Here are 10 of the weirdest sports rules that will leave you scratching your head.
No fake facial hair
Image: Capture @Moments
Believe it or not, Japan’s pro baseball league bans artificial beards. In an effort to maintain a clean, professional look, the Nippon Professional Baseball league prohibits players from wearing fake facial hair. Real beards are fine, but if it’s glued on, it’s against the rules.
No left-handed polo players
Image: Paul Chambers
Left-handed play was banned in polo for safety reasons. Since 1974, all polo players must use their right hand to hold the mallet. This prevents unintended collisions, as left-handed riders swinging in the opposite direction could create dangerous situations on the field.
Chess players can’t use the restroom too often
Image: JESHOOTS.COM
In professional chess, frequent bathroom breaks can get you disqualified. After several cheating scandals involving hidden communication devices, chess tournaments enforce strict restroom usage policies. If a player leaves too often, they risk forfeiting the match.
Tennis players can’t coach mid-match
Image: John Fornander
In professional tennis, coaching during a match is strictly prohibited. In fact, even silent signals can lead to penalties. In 2018, Serena Williams was penalized after her coach made a hand gesture, even though she claimed she didn’t see it.
Golfers can be penalized for signing the wrong score
Image: Courtney Cook
A golfer who accidentally signs an incorrect scorecard can be disqualified. Even if it’s an honest mistake, the penalty is harsh. This has happened to multiple players in major tournaments, making it one of golf’s most unforgiving rules.
Boxers can’t spit out their mouthguard to stall
Image: Nemesia Production
Some boxers tried spitting out their mouthguards to sneak in extra rest while the referee retrieved them. But this trick is against the rules—officials can now penalize fighters or even stop the match to prevent it.
Basketball players can’t hang on the rim too long
Image: Markus Spiske
Turns out your strict P.E. teacher was just enforcing NBA rules. The NBA prohibits players from hanging on the rim unless it's to avoid injury. Excessive hanging results in a technical foul, preventing unnecessary delays and taunting. Dunking is fine—just don’t show off!
Cricket players can’t use their hats to catch a ball
Image: Alfred Kenneally
If a cricket fielder catches a ball using their hat or any other part of their uniform, it doesn’t count. You must use your hands, no exceptions. The rule ensures players rely on skill, not creative use of clothing.
Table tennis serves must be thrown at least 6.3 inches high
Image: MARCUS CLARK
Since 2002, no sneaky low tosses are allowed in table tennis. This rule ensures a fair serve by making the ball visible to the opponent. If a player fails to toss the ball high enough, the serve is ruled illegal.
Sumo wrestlers can’t drive cars
Image: Alessio Roversi
It’s a rule for safety reasons. The sheer size of top athletes in this sport has been linked to car accidents, as they are often too large for modern vehicles. This has led the Japan Sumo Association to ban them from driving, requiring professional wrestlers to use chauffeurs or public transport instead.
