Section 7: Violations & Penalties
False Start
A false start results in disqualification from the event (zero-tolerance rule, consistent with World Athletics 2009-onward standard). This applies to all sprints and hurdles, plus the start of the 800 m. False starts in the relays disqualify the relay team.
Lane Infringement
- Running on or inside the inner lane line (stepping on the inner line is permitted in most cases; stepping inside the lane on a curve is DQ-worthy)
- Crossing into another lane in a lane-restricted event causing impeding contact = DQ
- Crossing in pack-running events (800 m after the break-in, 1500 m, 5000 m, 10,000 m) is governed by the impeding rule — DQ only if the runner physically impeded another
Relay Exchange Violations
- Exchange outside the 20 m exchange zone: relay DQ
- Outgoing runner starting more than 10 m before the exchange zone: relay DQ
- Outgoing runner running past the exchange-zone exit before receiving the baton: DQ
- Baton being dropped by anyone other than the receiving runner during the exchange = DQ (the receiving runner may pick up a baton they dropped only on their own without aid)
Throwing Event Violations
- Stepping on or over the front edge of the circle / front line of the runway: foul (no mark recorded)
- Leaving the circle improperly (must exit from the back half of the circle, balance demonstrated): foul
- Implement landing outside the throwing sector: foul
- Implement landing in wrong sector for hammer/discus due to safety cage breach: foul + safety review
- Javelin not landing tip-first (within scoring contact): foul under current World Athletics standard
Jumping Event Violations
- Crossing the takeoff board (long jump, triple jump): foul (no mark recorded)
- Knocking the bar off the standards (high jump, pole vault): a miss
- Three consecutive misses at the same or progressive heights: eliminated from the event
- Running through the standards without attempting to clear: a foul
Implement / Equipment Violations
- Using an unapproved implement: results disqualified retroactively if discovered
- Wearing prohibited spike configuration: warning + correction; subsequent violation = DQ
Unsporting Conduct
The standard track-and-field unsporting conduct framework applies: warning, then disqualification for repeat or egregious violations. The Jury of Appeal handles protest of officiating decisions.