What happens if a skeleton slider falls off?
B · Beginner · The race · 4 of 4The athlete must slide head first on the stomach, arms outside the saddle, and keep contact with the sled after the start timing. They must cross the finish on the sled, and the helmet must break the beam. After a crash, the athlete is ranked only if they cross the finish beam in contact with the sled.
How it works
- Position: prone, head first.
- Arms: outside the saddle in every heat.
- Contact: no loss of contact with the sled after the start timing.
- Finish: on the sled; the helmet breaks the beam.
- After a crash: cross the beam in contact with the sled to be ranked.
- Medical check: after every crash, before sliding again.
- Unfit athletes: the race doctor and jury may stop them.
- Track walks: at set times, never on race days.
The glossary has the head-first position, the crash rules, the finish, the helmet, the DNF and the DSQ.
Tricky cases
An athlete comes off but holds the sled and slides over the line. Ranked?
Yes, if they cross the finish beam in contact with the sled.
Can an athlete slide feet first?
No. Only the head-first prone position is allowed.
Can an athlete steer with handles?
No. Handles of any kind are banned.
Who decides if an athlete is fit after a crash?
The race medical officer; after a suspected concussion only a doctor can clear them.
Why the rule exists
Requiring contact stops athletes from being thrown clear and still claiming a time. Taking the time at the helmet makes the finish point the same for everyone.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Normal finish | On the sled, helmet breaks the beam | IBSF 10.6.5 |
| After a crash | In contact with the sled | IBSF 10.6.5 |
| Medical | Check after every crash | IBSF 9.1 |
From the rule book
IBSF, International Rules Skeleton (September 2026), articles 9.1, 10.6.5 and 10.6.7. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the IBSF International Rules, issued each season.