How is a ski race timed?
B · Beginner · The race · 7 of 7The clock starts when the racer's leg below the knee crosses the start line and stops at the finish line. A racer may finish on both skis or on one, or on both feet after a fall between the last gate and the line. Times are unofficial until the protest time is over. Equal times share a place.
How it works
- Start timing: taken when the leg below the knee crosses the start line.
- Valid start: in fixed-interval events, within 5 seconds either side of the start time.
- Finish width: at least 15 m for speed events, 10 m for slalom and giant slalom.
- Crossing: on both skis or on one ski, or on both feet after a fall after the last gate.
- After a fall: the time stops when any part of the body breaks the beam.
- Leaving: through the official exit with all race equipment.
- Unofficial times: posted at once; the protest time starts from then.
- Ties: equal times share a place.
The glossary has the timing, the start procedure, the DNF, the protest, the penalties (alpine) and the course.
Tricky cases
A racer falls after the last gate and slides across the line. Does it count?
Yes. The time stops when any part of the body breaks the beam; the racer must cross with both feet.
A racer leaves the finish without one pole. Penalty?
Yes. They must leave with all the equipment used in the race.
A racer starts six seconds after the signal. What happens?
In fixed-interval events, they are disqualified.
Are the times on the board final?
No. They are unofficial until the protest time has passed.
Why the rule exists
A clear line and a fixed way to cross it make every finish comparable. Allowing a fall in the final metres stops a crash at the line from wiping out a run.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Speed events | Finish at least 15 m wide | FIS 615.2 |
| Technical events | Finish at least 10 m wide | FIS 615.2 |
| Slalom start | Within about 10 seconds of the signal | FIS 805.3 |
From the rule book
FIS, ICR Book IV: Joint Regulations for Alpine Skiing (edition July 2026), articles 613.5, 613.7, 615 and 617. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the FIS ICR, revised by the FIS Council each season.