🏛️Official — World AquaticsIn Season
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World Aquatics regulates swimwear through its Swimwear Approval Programme. All swimwear worn in World Aquatics-sanctioned competitions must appear on the World Aquatics Approved Swimwear List.
Why people argue about this
People think that only swimmers need to worry about wearing approved swimwear, but actually, it affects all athletes in aquatics events like diving and water polo too, leading to confusion about who needs to comply with this rule.
Male competitors may wear swimsuits covering the body from the top of the hips to the knee. The swimsuit may not extend above the navel nor below the knee.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the knee coverage requirement means only the bottom half of their legs are covered, leading them to wear shorts-like suits with a crotch opening instead of full-length trunks or briefs. But actually, the rule requires the swimsuit to cover from the top of the hips down to the knee on both thighs and calves, not just stopping at the knees like shorts would.
Female competitors may wear one-piece or two-piece swimsuits. The suit must not cover the neck, extend past the shoulder, or cover any part of the arms.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that women's swimsuits must be fully covered from shoulders to knees at all times, leading to arguments about whether a tiny strap or sleeveless top is allowed in certain strokes like butterfly. The confusion arises because this rule specifically mentions coverage for "Women," not for the entire body, and it only applies during specific events where AOE touchpads are required.
Starting blocks must be firmly fixed and shall not move during use. The top surface of the block shall be covered with a non-slip material.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the AOE touchpads are just for timing purposes and forget they're crucial for detecting false starts, leading to arguments about their necessity at World Aquatics events where these devices must be installed at both ends of each lane according to the SW Rule SW 1.4.
Automatic Officiating Equipment (AOE) touchpads are required at World Aquatics sanctioned events. Touchpads must be positioned at both ends of each lane.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that touchpads are only for timing purposes and forget they're also used for signaling false starts and lane separation. Thus, they misunderstand how crucial these devices are at both ends of each lane for ensuring fair play in all aspects of swimming events.
Lane lines shall be continuous from start end to finish end and shall be attached to anchors in the walls. Lane lines consist of individual buoys or floats assembled on a wire or rope.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the 15-meter rope is for safety purposes only, like a lifeline, when in fact it's specifically designed to mark the boundary of the designated lane, ensuring fair competition by clearly defining each swimmer’s space and preventing accidental collisions or interference from other lanes.
A recall rope must be stretched across the course at a distance of 15 m (49.2 ft) from the starting end. The rope shall be at least 1.2 m (3.9 ft) above the water surface.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the false start rope is there for decoration, thinking it's just a safety net in case someone touches it accidentally. In reality, its precise placement at 15 meters from the starting end is crucial to ensure fair competition and prevent athletes from gaining an unfair advantage by touching or anticipating the start line.
Goggles may be worn in competition. Swimmers may wear not more than two swimming caps simultaneously.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that only one cap is allowed for safety reasons in competition, thinking it might interfere with goggles. However, they misunderstand the rule which states you can wear up to two caps simultaneously as long as they're used correctly and don't obstruct vision. The confusion arises because of a misinterpretation of what "simultaneously" means in this context.
The long course pool shall measure 50 metres (164 ft 1 in) in length. The tolerance for pool length is 0 cm (no shortfall permitted); pools may not be shorter than 50 m at any point.
Why people argue about this
People think that they can get away with making their pool exactly 50 meters long, but actually the rule allows for a tolerance of zero centimeters, meaning no part of the pool can be shorter than 50 meters; it must always measure precisely 50 meters from end to end.
The short course pool shall measure 25 metres (82 ft) in length, measured under the same conditions as the long course pool.
Why people argue about this
People often argue that pools don't need to be 2.0 meters deep throughout their length, thinking it only applies at the ends where lanes meet. Actually, they misunderstand that the entire pool must maintain this minimum depth from one end to the other for safety and fairness in all events.
Competition pools for World Aquatics events must have a minimum of eight lanes. Lane specifications: Lane width: minimum 2.5 m (8 ft 2 in) per lane; Two spaces outside lanes 1 and 8: minimum 0.5 m (1 ft 8 in) each; Total minimum pool width for 8 lanes: 21 m (68 ft 11 in)
Why people argue about this
People often argue that the 2.0 m depth requirement is too shallow for safety, thinking it makes pools unsafe for competitive swimming events like diving or synchronized swimming. However, the actual confusion arises because this minimum ensures a safe and consistent pool environment for all disciplines within the sport, including those that require deeper water.
The minimum depth of the pool throughout shall be 2.0 m (6 ft 7 in). A depth of at least 2.0 m is required for the entire length of the pool.
Why people argue about this
People often argue that the pool depth of 2.0 meters is too shallow for competitive swimming events like sprint freestyle races, thinking it limits swimmers' ability to fully utilize their speed potential. However, the rule actually aims to ensure safety and prevent injuries by maintaining a certain water depth, which is crucial for proper technique and overall performance in various strokes.
The water temperature shall be maintained between 25°C and 28°C (77°F and 82.4°F) during competition. The temperature must be measured and recorded before the session and displayed to team officials upon request.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the water temperature is only about comfort for swimmers, not a critical competition factor. But in fact, the official rule emphasizes maintaining this temperature range to ensure fair racing conditions by minimizing energy expenditure and maximizing performance consistency across different pools.
Illumination of the competition pool must be uniform and sufficient for officials to observe swimmer technique throughout the race. World Aquatics recommends minimum illumination levels of 1500 lux at water level for televised events.
Why people argue about this
People think that they only need enough light for a swimmer to see their own hands moving in the water, but actually, the rule requires sufficient illumination so officials can assess technique clearly from above-water angles during televised events.
Bulkheads used to divide a pool or create the 25 m short course distance must be rigidly fixed during competition. Touchpads must be mounted on both faces of a bulkhead when used as a turning and finishing wall.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that bulkheads can be moved during competition as long as they're rigidly fixed beforehand, which leads to misunderstandings about their use as turning and finishing walls. The confusion arises because the rule explicitly states touchpads must be mounted on both faces of a bulkhead when used in these roles, not allowing for any flexibility or movement post-fixing.
Each lane must have a clearly marked target line on the floor of the pool, centred in the lane, running the full length of the pool.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the target lines are just for visual reference during races and don't affect the actual competition, which is why they argue about their necessity or importance. The truth is, these lines ensure fair racing by clearly defining each swimmer's starting position within their lane, preventing any ambiguity that could lead to disputes over who started in front of whom.
Flags must be suspended across the pool at a height of 1.8 m (5 ft 11 in) above the water surface, positioned 5.0 m (16 ft 5 in) from each end wall. These backstroke flags allow backstroke swimmers to gauge their proximity to the wall.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the 15-meter mark is about where swimmers start their race from the block, when in fact it's a safety guideline ensuring flags are high enough off the water to be seen by all competitors and officials during races. The confusion arises because they misinterpret the height requirement for these flags as setting up the starting point itself.
The Referee has full control and authority over all officials and enforces all rules and decisions made by World Aquatics. The Referee shall: Ensure all equipment meets World Aquatics specifications before competition begins; Assign and instruct all officials; Intervene in the competition at any ...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that manual times are used as the primary official time in case of AOE (Automated Timing Equipment) failures, but actually, while manual times serve as a backup when AOE isn't available, they're not considered official at World Aquatics Championships unless explicitly confirmed by the Chief Timekeeper.
Each relay team consists of exactly four swimmers. A swimmer who has competed in a preliminary relay may be replaced by a different swimmer in the final, provided a declaration of names and order of swimming is submitted before the event.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that a swimmer can only be replaced once in their entire career for a relay, which is incorrect according to the rule. The actual rule states you can be replaced by someone else in the final if declared before the event, not that you can only be replaced once across all relays. This oversight leads to misunderstandings and disputes about when and how replacements are allowed.
The Starter has full control of the swimmers from the time the Referee turns the swimmers over to the Starter (until the race commences).
Why people argue about this
People often assume that manual times are used as the primary official record in case of AOE (Automatic Officiating Equipment) time discrepancies, but actually, it's just a backup system meant to be utilized only when AOE data is unavailable or unreliable at World Aquatics Championships. They overlook the fact that AOE times are considered official under these conditions.
The Chief Timekeeper assigns lanes to all timekeepers, collects and checks their recorded times, and resolves discrepancies when AOE times are unavailable. At World Aquatics Championships, AOE times are official; manual times serve as backup.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that manual times are used as the primary official time in case of AOE (Automatic Timing System) failures at World Aquatics events, but actually, they serve as a backup method to verify and correct the AOE recorded times when needed. They don't automatically take precedence over AOE times; it's just another layer of accuracy control.
Three timekeepers are assigned to each lane using calibrated stopwatches. When AOE is not available, the middle time of the three recorded times is the official time.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the middle time of three recorded times is always used as the official time, forgetting that these are stopwatches from different swimmers in a race, so their speeds vary greatly. The confusion arises because they overlook how significantly individual swimmer performance can differ, leading to varied and sometimes unexpected results when averaging multiple times.
The Chief Inspector of Turns is responsible for ensuring all Turn Inspectors are at their assigned positions and carry out their duties correctly. The Chief Inspector receives disqualification reports from Turn Inspectors and forwards them to the Referee.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the Chief Inspector of Turns is solely responsible for penalizing swimmers who don't turn correctly during their race, but in reality, they're more about ensuring everything runs smoothly by overseeing Turn Inspectors and reporting issues to the Referee. The confusion arises because they are supposed to be a supervisor rather than the direct enforcers of penalties.
One Inspector of Turns is assigned to each lane at each end of the pool (two inspectors per lane for a 10-lane pool). Turn Inspectors observe compliance with all applicable stroke and turning rules.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that only one inspector is watching each lane for turns, which leads them to believe they can get away with minor infractions like a delayed turn or an incorrect entry angle. The confusion arises because the official rule specifies two inspectors per lane, ensuring more comprehensive oversight and reducing opportunities for cheating.
Finish Judges observe the order of finish when AOE is not functioning. Each lane has one Finish Judge stationed at the finish end at deck level.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that Finish Judges only need to focus on their own lane's results when the AOE system isn't working, but actually, they must ensure all swimmers in every lane are correctly ordered regardless of the main timing system's failure. They can't delegate this responsibility to other officials or lanes.
Stroke and Turn Judges observe and enforce all stroke rules throughout the race, including: Correct arm and leg technique for the specific stroke being swum; Legal touches on the walls at each turn and at the finish; Compliance with underwater distance restrictions after starts and turns
Why people argue about this
People often assume that a swimmer who has already competed in a preliminary relay cannot be replaced by another swimmer for the final, which they misunderstand as being strictly one person per event. The confusion arises because this rule actually allows for substitutions if declared before the event begins, not during or after prelims have concluded.
To compete in World Aquatics sanctioned events, athletes must be registered members of their national member federation. Age group competitions have defined age brackets.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that a swimmer can only be replaced if they didn't compete in a preliminary relay, which leads to misunderstandings about who can be substituted for in a final event. The actual rule allows for substitutions as long as the names and order are declared before the competition begins, regardless of whether the swimmer has prior experience in relays or not.
All individual freestyle, butterfly, breaststroke, and individual medley events start with a dive from the starting block.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that swimmers can start from any position they choose at the block, forgetting that they must always begin with a dive from the starting block in freestyle, butterfly, breaststroke, and medley events. The rule is clear, but some overlook its specifics, leading to misunderstandings about allowable starts.
At all turns, the swimmer must touch the wall. After a legal touch, the swimmer may turn in any manner, push off, and resume the prescribed stroke.
Why people argue about this
People think that they can only touch the wall with their hands at turns, but actually, they can use any part of their body as long as it's a legal touch, whether it’s a hand or even an arm or shoulder for extra push-off power. The confusion arises because the rule specifies "touch" rather than "hand.
For backstroke events and the backstroke leg of the medley relay, swimmers shall line up in the water facing the starting end before the starting signal. Swimmers grasp the starting handles with both hands and place their feet (including toes) below the water surface against the wall.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that swimmers can start with their hands above water as long as they're below it by the time the referee's gun goes off. But actually, the rule specifies both hands must be gripping the handles and feet touching the wall underwater for backstroke starts to ensure fairness and safety in competition.
In freestyle events, a swimmer may swim any style. The following apply: SW 5.1: In individual events designated "Freestyle," the swimmer may swim any style. In the freestyle leg of a medley relay, the swimmer must use a style other than backstroke, breaststroke, or butterfly.; SW 5.2: Some part o...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that since freestyle specifically refers to front crawl, they can't use other styles like breaststroke in a freestyle race. But actually, the official verdict clarifies that swimmers are free to choose any of the four competitive swimming strokes—freestyle being one of them—in their race, as long as it's not butterfly or backstroke.
Breaststroke is the most technically prescribed stroke. Key rules include: SW 6.1: After the start and each turn, one full arm stroke and one leg kick may be taken while the swimmer is wholly submerged. The head must break the surface before or at the widest point of the second arm stroke.; SW 6....
Why people argue about this
People often argue that the breaststroke is inherently more difficult than other strokes, leading them to believe it should be faster in races. However, the official verdict clarifies that while the breaststroke might have more prescribed technical elements, its speed can vary greatly depending on an athlete's technique and execution, not just because of the stroke itself being harder.
SW 7.1: Both arms must be brought forward simultaneously over the water and pulled back simultaneously throughout the race.; SW 7.2: All up and down movements of the legs and feet must be simultaneous. The legs and feet need not be at the same level, but they shall not alternate relative to one a...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that in Individual Medley events, swimmers can switch between butterfly strokes and other strokes whenever they want during their race, thinking it's a free-for-all of sorts. However, the actual rule is that each swimmer must perform one full lap of butterfly stroke before moving on to any other stroke – no shortcuts or switches allowed within the butterfly phase.
SW 8.2: The swimmer shall push off from the wall and swim on the back throughout the race, except at turns as provided in SW 8.4.; SW 8.3: Some part of the swimmer must break the surface of the water throughout the race, except the swimmer may be wholly submerged during the turn and for a distanc...
Why people argue about this
People often think that they can switch up the order of strokes in Individual Medley events as long as they finish with backstroke, but actually, the four strokes must be performed in the exact sequence of freestyle, breaststroke, butterfly, and then backstroke to comply with the rule. They mistakenly believe flexibility, but the official structure is strictly adhered to for scoring fairness.
In Individual Medley events, the swimmer performs the four strokes in the following order: Butterfly; Backstroke; Breaststroke
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the order of strokes in Individual Medley is arbitrary, forgetting that each stroke has a distinct technical requirement and speed, which can affect overall race strategy. The confusion arises because they overlook how crucial it is to maintain a specific sequence for fair competition, as judges assess form and consistency across all four strokes equally.
In the Medley Relay, four swimmers each swim one quarter of the total distance in the following order: Backstroke; Breaststroke; Butterfly
Why people argue about this
People often assume that in a Medley Relay race, each swimmer must complete their full length of 50 meters before the next swimmer starts, which leads to misunderstandings about timing and pacing during the relay. However, actually, swimmers start at staggered times so that they can all finish simultaneously after completing their designated quarter of the race distance.
In relay events, a swimmer may not leave the starting platform before the preceding swimmer has touched the wall. Any swimmer other than the designated swimmer who enters the water before the completion of the race by all swimmers is grounds for disqualification.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that leaving early is only about timing - they think it's just about crossing the finish line at the right moment. But actually, the rule is more about maintaining a clean exchange where each swimmer steps out of the water in sequence and touches the wall before entering again, ensuring fair play for all teams.
The winner of each event is the swimmer who completes the prescribed distance in the shortest time. Results are determined by the Automatic Officiating Equipment (AOE) touchpad system as the primary source.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that if there's a tie in swimming races, it's automatically decided by the AOE touchpad system without further review, but actually, ties are reviewed by officials for any potential errors or disputes before declaring a winner to ensure fairness and accuracy.
When two or more swimmers record identical official times (to 0.01 s), they are declared tied and both receive the same place. If a tie occurs for a qualifying position in a final, the tied swimmers shall both advance.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that if two swimmers have identical times, they automatically get tied up and share a place without further ado. But actually, it's more nuanced - once ties are declared, officials must then decide on how to rank them, which can lead to disputes about who gets the higher or lower placement within those tied positions.
Relay results are determined the same way as individual results using AOE. The team time is measured from the starting signal to the final swimmer's touch on the touchpad.
Why people argue about this
People think that in relay races, each swimmer's personal best time should be used instead of the team's total time, but actually, the official verdict clearly states that the team's overall time from start to finish is what determines the result, just like individual events use AOE (Average of Best Two Attempts).
To be eligible for a World Record ratification, the following conditions must be met: The performance must be achieved in a World Aquatics-sanctioned competition.; A full doping control must be conducted for the swimmer(s) involved within the window specified by World Aquatics Anti-Doping Rules.;...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that swimmers are randomly assigned lanes in finals based solely on their preliminary times, forgetting that only the fastest swimmer from each preliminary gets a guaranteed lane 4 spot for the final. This leads to misunderstandings about how other swimmers' positions are determined in finals heats.
At World Aquatics Championships, individual event results contribute points to national team totals based on final placement. World Aquatics publishes the specific points table for each championship.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that in the preliminary heats for swimming events, swimmers are randomly assigned lanes regardless of their submitted times, but actually, they're seeded by entry times with the fastest swimmer getting lane 4 in an 8-lane pool to set a fast pace for the final heat. This can lead to confusion about how exactly seeding works and who gets which lane.
In preliminary heats, swimmers are seeded by submitted entry times. The fastest swimmer is placed in lane 4 of the final heat (in an 8-lane pool).
Why people argue about this
People often assume that faster swimmers are automatically given lane 4 in finals, thinking it's a guaranteed position for them based on their heat times. However, the official verdict clarifies that only the fastest swimmer in each preliminary heat gets placed in lane 4 of the final, not necessarily all top seeds or those with the fastest times overall.
A swimmer who moves from the stationary starting position before the starting signal is given has committed a false start. Under the current World Aquatics rules, any swimmer committing a false start shall be disqualified.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that only swimmers who start early are penalized for false starts in swimming, forgetting that a swimmer can also be disqualified if they move after hearing the starting signal but before it's given. The confusion arises because they overlook the timing aspect and focus solely on moving too soon.
Failure to touch the wall at the completion of each length: Disqualification (DQ); Remaining completely submerged beyond 15 m after start or turn: DQ; Walking on the bottom of the pool (permitted, but use of the bottom to gain an advantage is prohibited): DQ at the Referee's discretion
Why people argue about this
People often assume that if a swimmer is disqualified for freestyle violations during a race, they automatically get reported in writing by the official who saw it happen directly to the Referee. However, the actual process outlined here involves reporting through the Chief Inspector of Turns instead, which can lead to misunderstandings and disputes about who should handle the report.
Alternating arm or leg movement: DQ; Failure to bring both hands forward from the breast simultaneously: DQ; Arms pulled back beyond the hip line (except first stroke after start/turn): DQ
Why people argue about this
People often assume that only the official who saw the violation needs to report it in writing, forgetting that it must be relayed directly to either the Chief Inspector of Turns or the Referee for final decision-making, which can lead to misunderstandings and disputes about whose responsibility it is to report certain violations.
Arms not brought forward simultaneously over the water: DQ; Alternating leg movement (flutter kick): DQ; Breaststroke kick during butterfly: DQ
Why people argue about this
People often assume that only the official who witnessed the violation needs to report it in writing, forgetting they must also notify the Chief Inspector of Turns if it's a turn or stroke infraction. This oversight leads to misunderstandings and disputes about who is responsible for reporting violations correctly.
Rotating past vertical (90°) toward the breast, except during a legal turn: DQ; Finishing on the breast (not returning to back position after the turn): DQ; Remaining submerged beyond 15 m after start or turn: DQ
Why people argue about this
People often assume that only the official who witnessed a start violation needs to report it in writing directly to the Referee, forgetting that turn/stroke violations require reporting through the Chief Inspector of Turns as well. This oversight leads to misunderstandings about which officials are responsible for passing along these written reports.
Failure to complete each stroke segment in the correct order: DQ; Using a different stroke than required for the applicable leg: DQ; Any stroke-specific violation applicable to the segment being swum: DQ
Why people argue about this
People often assume that only the official who saw the violation needs to report it in writing, forgetting that the Referee makes the final decision on disqualifications for start violations. They overlook the fact that if a start issue occurs, the responsibility shifts directly to the Referee without needing an intermediary step with the Chief Inspector of Turns.
Relay swimmer leaves the starting block before the incoming swimmer touches the wall: DQ (entire team); Swimming in the wrong order (medley relay): DQ (entire team); Any swimmer other than the four designated swimmers entering the water during the race: DQ (entire team)
Why people argue about this
People often assume that if a start violation is spotted during a race, it's automatically reported directly to the Referee without needing written confirmation from an official who witnessed it. But actually, the rule specifies that all disqualifications must be reported in writing by the observer to either the Chief Inspector of Turns or the Referee, ensuring a paper trail for any disputes.
Wilful delay of the start after the command "Take your marks": The swimmer may be reported to the Referee for delaying the start; the Referee may disqualify the swimmer at their discretion.; Interfering with another swimmer during the race (e.g., grabbing lane ropes): DQ of the interfering swimme...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that if a swimmer is disqualified for general conduct, they can be punished by either the Chief Inspector of Turns or directly by the Referee without needing written confirmation from the observer. But actually, the rule mandates that all disqualifications must be reported in writing to ensure transparency and accountability in the decision-making process.
All disqualifications must be reported in writing by the official who observed the violation to the Chief Inspector of Turns (for turn/stroke violations) or directly to the Referee (for start violations). The Referee makes the final ruling.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that only the official who saw the violation needs to report it in writing, forgetting they must also notify the Chief Inspector of Turns for turn/stroke infractions. This oversight leads to misunderstandings and disputes about whose responsibility it is to formally document disqualifications.
World Aquatics requires that all competition venues maintain safe deck conditions throughout all sessions. Non-slip surfaces must be maintained on pool decks, starting block platforms, and all walkways.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that deck safety rules are only about physical hazards like wet floors, forgetting that they also cover anti-doping testing protocols in aquatic environments. The confusion arises because these rules extend beyond visible dangers to include unobtrusive monitoring for prohibited substances, which isn't always obvious or immediately apparent on a pool deck.
A minimum number of trained lifeguards must be on duty at all times during practice and competition sessions in World Aquatics sanctioned events. Lifeguards must be positioned to observe the entire pool.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that swimmers only get tested during official competitions when in fact, World Aquatics Anti-Doping Rules mandate regular testing both during and outside of competition hours, which can lead to misunderstandings about when athletes are subject to drug tests.
A qualified medical professional (physician or emergency medical technician) must be present or immediately available for all World Aquatics sanctioned competitions. An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) must be located at the venue and accessible within a maximum of 3 minutes response time.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that medical personnel can only be used for administering treatments during competition, when in fact, they are allowed to provide assistance at all times, including out-of-competition testing sites where athletes might seek privacy or support before a test. This rule's flexibility is misunderstood, leading to confusion about its scope and application.
World Aquatics has adopted a concussion recognition and management protocol consistent with international sports concussion guidelines. Any swimmer suspected of having sustained a head injury or concussion must be immediately removed from competition and evaluated by medical personnel.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the head injuries and concussion protocol only applies during actual races, forgetting that it also covers out-of-competition testing where swimmers are tested for substances before and after events. They fail to realize how comprehensive this rule is in protecting against both in-game and off-the-clock performance-enhancing activities.
World Aquatics operates under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Code and the World Aquatics Anti-Doping Rules. All swimmers competing at World Aquatics events are subject to in-competition and out-of-competition testing.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that only swimmers who test positive for banned substances are penalized under World Aquatics' anti-doping rules, but in reality, all athletes must undergo both in-competition and out-of-competition drug tests to ensure fair play regardless of whether they're caught or not.
Pool water must meet public health standards for competition and training. Chlorine, pH, turbidity, and microbial counts must comply with standards established by the relevant national health authority and World Aquatics venue certification requirements.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the water depth rules apply only during dives from starting blocks, forgetting that they also cover all diving activities in the pool. The confusion arises because the rule specifies a minimum depth of 1.35 meters at both the starting end and the diving board area, which can lead to misunderstandings about when this rule is actually enforced.
All outdoor aquatic competitions must have a lightning/thunder safety plan. The standard protocol requires evacuation of all swimmers from the water at the first observed lightning or heard thunder, with a minimum 30-minute delay after the last lightning strike before resuming competition.
Why people argue about this
People think they can dive from blocks in shallow pools as long as it's less than 1.35 meters at the starting end, but actually, the rule states diving is only permitted if the minimum depth of 1 meter is met at both the starting and competition ends, not just one.
Diving from starting blocks is only permitted in pools with a minimum depth of 1.35 m (4 ft 5 in) at the starting end and 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in) preferred for internationally sanctioned events. Shallow-water starts (in-water or push-off from the wall...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the minimum depth requirement applies only at the diving boards themselves, overlooking the fact that it extends all along the entire starting end of the pool where divers must enter the water safely from a ladder or steps. This oversight leads to misunderstandings about where and how deep the pool needs to be for safe diving practices.
World Aquatics reserves the right to modify competition schedules, postpone events, or implement additional safety measures in response to extreme environmental conditions including, but not limite...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that if World Aquatics decides to modify competition schedules due to extreme conditions, it means swimmers will be pulled out of events entirely. However, the actual intent is more nuanced: they might delay or postpone events rather than cancel them outright, ensuring athletes still get their races in a safer environment.
World Aquatics regulates swimwear through its Swimwear Approval Programme. All swimwear worn in World Aquatics-sanctioned competitions must appear on the World Aquatics Approved Swimwear List.
Why people argue about this
People think they can just wear anything as long as it's dry and fits them well, but actually, they must have their swimwear approved by World Aquatics to be eligible for sanctioned competitions, which is why confusion often arises over this rule.
The long course pool shall measure 50 metres (164 ft 1 in) in length. The tolerance for pool length is 0 cm (no shortfall permitted); pools may not be shorter than 50 m at any point.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that a pool's length can vary slightly within 0 cm, thinking it could be just a tiny bit shorter than 50 meters. However, they misunderstand that pools must measure exactly 50 meters in length to comply with the rule, and cannot be even marginally shorter anywhere along their length.
The Referee has full control and authority over all officials and enforces all rules and decisions made by World Aquatics. The Referee shall: Ensure all equipment meets World Aquatics specifications before competition begins; Assign and instruct all officials; Intervene in the competition at any ...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that manual times are used as primary results if AOE (Aqua Officials) times aren't available, which leads to misunderstandings since the official verdict clarifies that manual times serve only as a backup and not as the official record at World Aquatics Championships where AOE times are deemed official.
All individual freestyle, butterfly, breaststroke, and individual medley events start with a dive from the starting block.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that swimmers can start from anywhere in the pool for these events, thinking it's just about getting into the water quickly. But actually, they must dive from the starting block as stated, which leads to arguments when someone believes another competitor started somewhere else or didn't use the exact method of diving specified.
The winner of each event is the swimmer who completes the prescribed distance in the shortest time. Results are determined by the Automatic Officiating Equipment (AOE) touchpad system as the primary source.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that if multiple swimmers touch the wall simultaneously at the finish line, it's automatically a tie, when in fact, the Automatic Officiating Equipment (AOE) touchpad system is designed to detect and prioritize the first valid touch, thus determining the winner even in such scenarios.
A swimmer who moves from the stationary starting position before the starting signal is given has committed a false start. Under the current World Aquatics rules, any swimmer committing a false start shall be disqualified.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that false starts are only about moving before the official start signal is given. However, they misunderstand that a false start can occur if a swimmer even begins their movement towards the block prior to hearing the starting command, which is why this rule causes confusion in swimming events.
World Aquatics operates under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Code and the World Aquatics Anti-Doping Rules. All swimmers competing at World Aquatics events are subject to in-competition and out-of-competition testing.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that safety considerations in swimming events mean they're only tested for performance-enhancing drugs when something goes wrong, like a swimmer gets injured during competition. But actually, all swimmers are subject to drug testing both during and outside of official meets as part of World Aquatics' comprehensive anti-doping program.