How does an interval start cross-country race work?
B · Beginner · The races · 3 of 4In an interval-start race, skiers start one at a time, usually 30 seconds apart, and race the clock. The result is finish time minus start time. A skier may leave up to 3 seconds before or after the signal; earlier is a false start and costs at least 15 seconds. A skier being caught must give way when asked.
How it works
- Intervals: usually 30 seconds; 15 seconds for sprint qualification.
- Start: feet behind the line, poles in front; countdown "5-4-3-2-1" and "Go".
- Start window: 3 seconds either side of the signal.
- Late start: the start list time still counts.
- False start: more than 3 seconds early; a time penalty of at least 15 seconds.
- Passing: a skier being caught must give way on first demand.
- Ties: equal times share the place.
- Interruption: if stopped while skiers are on course, the race is cancelled.
The glossary has the interval start, the false start (cross-country), the passing, the bib, the distance race and the timing.
Tricky cases
A skier starts 5 seconds late. Do they lose 5 seconds?
Yes. The start list time counts, so the delay is added to their time, unless the jury finds force majeure.
A skier catches the one in front on a classic course with two tracks. Must the slower one move?
Yes. In interval races the skier being passed must give way on first demand, even with two tracks.
Two skiers have the same time. Who is listed first?
They share the place; the lower start number is listed first.
The race is stopped by a storm halfway through. Then what?
It is cancelled. If the stop is short, the jury may resume the starts.
Why the rule exists
Spacing skiers apart makes it a pure test against the clock. Counting the listed start time for late starters stops anyone from gaining by waiting.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Interval races | 30-second intervals | FIS 315.2.1 |
| Sprint qualification | 15-second or shorter intervals | FIS 315.2.1, 325.4.1.1 |
| Pursuit early start | Time gained plus 30 seconds | FIS 352.4.1.2 |
From the rule book
FIS, ICR Book II: Cross-Country (June 2026), articles 315.2, 321, 343.10.1 and 352.4.1. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the FIS ICR, revised by the FIS Council each season.