How is the starting order decided in ski racing?
I · Intermediate · The race · 3 of 4The best 15 racers by FIS points draw their start numbers among themselves; the rest start in order of their points, and those without points go last. In two-run races, the top 30 after the first run start the second in reverse, so the leader goes 30th. Speed events start at intervals of about 60 seconds.
How it works
- First group: the best 15 present by FIS points draw their numbers.
- The rest: start in order of FIS points; those without points are drawn last.
- The draw: held the day before at a team captains' meeting.
- Intervals: usually 60 seconds in downhill, giant slalom and super-G; irregular in slalom.
- Second run: the top 30 in reverse; 31st onwards in result order.
- Fewer reversed: the jury may reverse only the top 15.
- Snow seed: in heavy snow, at least six racers drawn from the last 20% start before number one.
- Late starters: sanctioned unless the delay was force majeure.
The glossary has the start order, the start procedure, the jury, the timing, the forerunner and the giant slalom.
Tricky cases
Two racers tie for 30th after the first run. Who starts first?
The one with the lower start number.
A racer's binding breaks a minute before the start. Excused?
No. Equipment failure is not force majeure.
Why would the jury make other skiers start before number one?
To clear fresh snow from the course; the snow seed group starts in reverse bib order.
Can the jury change the start order on the day?
Yes, if the condition of the course requires it.
Why the rule exists
Early starters usually get the best snow, so the draw spreads that chance among the top racers. Reversing the top 30 sets up a finish where the leaders come last.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Speed events | 60-second intervals | FIS 622.1 |
| Slalom | Irregular intervals | FIS 805.1 |
| National championships | Other draw methods allowed | FIS 621.3.2 |
From the rule book
FIS, ICR Book IV: Joint Regulations for Alpine Skiing (edition July 2026), articles 613, 620 to 622 and 805. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the FIS ICR, revised by the FIS Council each season.