What happens if a diver stops and starts again?
A · Advanced · The dive · 1 of 5A diver who begins a dive and stops is given a restart, and 2 points are taken off each judge's award for the second attempt. If the second attempt also fails, it is a failed dive. In a strong wind the referee may allow a restart with no deduction.
How it works
- Running dives: a restart is declared when the diver "takes a step and stops".
- Standing dives: when the diver "stops the movement for the take-off after the legs have commenced to press".
- Armstand dives: when the diver loses balance and moves a hand from its place, when one or both feet return to the platform or when any part of the body other than the hands touches the platform.
- The cost: "2 points are to be deducted from each judge's awards".
- Once only: "When a second attempt (a re-start) is unsuccessful, the Referee shall declare a failed dive."
- Wind: "When there is a strong wind, the Referee may give a diver the right to make a re-start without deduction of points."
- Exceptional circumstances: the referee may let a diver repeat a dive without penalty. The request must be made at once, and the marks for the first dive are noted in case of a protest.
- Before the signal: if a diver goes before the referee's signal, the referee decides whether the dive is to be repeated.
Tricky cases
A diver stops their run because a camera flash goes off. Do they lose 2 points?
It depends on the referee. In exceptional circumstances the referee may allow a dive to be repeated without penalty.
A diver in an armstand wobbles and puts one foot back on the platform. Is that a failed dive?
No. It is a restart, with 2 points deducted from each award.
How many restarts can a diver have on one dive?
One. If the second attempt is unsuccessful, the dive is failed.
A diver on a standing back dive rocks on their toes without starting to press, then settles. Is that a restart?
No. A standing restart is declared when the diver stops after the legs have begun to press for the take-off.
Why the rule exists
A diver who is off balance should stop. Going on with a bad take-off from 10 m is dangerous. The rule lets them stop, at a price high enough that nobody does it to steady their nerves.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| World Aquatics rules | As above | DV 6.5.1 to 6.5.3; DV 8.2.6.3; DV 6.4.3 |
| Synchronised diving | A restart by one or both divers costs 2 points from all the judges | DV 9.7 |
| Outdoor pools | The wind allowance matters most here | DV 6.4.3 |
From the rule book
World Aquatics, Competition Regulations, Part Four: Diving Rules (in force as from 1 January 2025), Articles 6.4.3, 6.4.9 to 6.4.11, 6.5.1 to 6.5.3, 8.2.6.3 and 9.7. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Aquatics Competition Regulations (PDF).