What does a yellow paddle mean in race walking?
B · Beginner · The event · 4 of 6A yellow paddle is a caution. A judge shows it when not completely satisfied that the walker is keeping to the rule, so that the walker can correct their technique. It carries the symbol of the fault. It is not a penalty and does not count towards disqualification, however many a walker is shown.
How it works
- When: "When a Judge is not completely satisfied that an athlete is fully complying" with the definition of race walking.
- What: the judge "should, where possible, show the athlete a yellow paddle with the symbol of the offence on each side".
- The symbols: one for a bent knee and one for loss of contact.
- Once from each judge for each fault: "An athlete cannot be shown a second yellow paddle by the same Judge for the same offence."
- Afterwards: the judge tells the chief judge after the competition which paddles they showed.
- Before a red card: the commentary recommends that, where possible, a yellow paddle is shown before a red card is issued. It is not required.
- The purpose: the commentary says it is "to allow the athlete to correct their walking technique", so that as many athletes as possible finish correctly.
Tricky cases
Do three yellow paddles disqualify a walker?
No. Yellow paddles are cautions. Only red cards count.
Must a judge show a yellow paddle before sending a red card?
No. It is recommended where possible, but a judge who sees a fault may send a red card straight away.
Can the same judge show a walker two yellow paddles?
Yes, one for each fault. The same judge cannot show a second for the same fault.
Can six different judges each show the same walker a yellow paddle for a bent knee?
Yes. The limit is one for each judge and each fault.
Why the rule exists
Race walking is hard to judge and hard to do at speed, and most faults are small. A caution gives the walker a chance to put things right before any penalty, which is fairer to the athlete and better for the race than removing people without notice.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| World Athletics rules | As above | TR 54.5 |
| The referee's yellow card | A different thing. It is a warning for conduct or for a drinks offence | TR 7.1; TR 54.10.8 |
| Red cards | Sent to the chief judge and not shown to the walker | TR 54.6 |
From the rule book
World Athletics, Competition and Technical Rules, 2026 Edition, Technical Rule 54.5 and the commentary printed under Technical Rule 54.6. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Athletics Competition and Technical Rules 2026 (PDF).