Section 4: Players & Officials
4.1 Competitors
Fencing competitions feature both individual and team events. In individual events, a single fencer competes against opponents through pool rounds and direct elimination brackets. In team events, each team consists of three fencers (plus one reserve), who fence in a relay format against the opposing team's members.
4.2 The Referee (Président)
The referee (historically called the président) is the sole authority on the piste. Their responsibilities include:
- Calling fencers to order: “En garde!” (take position), “Êtes-vous prêts?” (Are you ready?), “Allez!” (Fence!), “Halte!” (Stop!)
- Analyzing the phrase d'armes (sequence of actions) in foil and sabre to determine which fencer has right of way and therefore earns the touch
- Awarding touches based on indicator lights and priority analysis
- Administering penalty cards (yellow, red, black)
- Ensuring proper equipment function and safety throughout the bout
- Managing the bout clock and score
4.3 Additional Officials
- Video Referee: At FIE-level competitions, a video referee reviews disputed calls upon request. Each fencer is allowed a limited number of video appeals per bout (typically two unsuccessful appeals per bout). If the appeal is upheld, the fencer retains their appeal count.
- Directoire Technique (DT): A panel of officials who oversee the overall organization of the competition, assign referees to pistes, handle protests, and ensure the competition runs according to FIE rules.
- SEMI Commission (Electrical Equipment): Technicians who verify and test all electrical scoring equipment, weapons, and body cords before and during competition using standardized testing apparatus.
- Medical Officer: An FIE-licensed physician must be present at all international competitions. The medical officer handles injury assessments, blood protocol, and medical withdrawals.
4.4 Side Judges (Historical)
Before the adoption of electronic scoring, four side judges (two per fencer) observed whether touches landed on valid or invalid target. Side judges were phased out as electrical apparatus was adopted for each weapon. They are no longer used in modern competition.