Can different classes race together in para athletics?
A · Advanced · Classes and entry · 1 of 3Athletes normally compete against their own sport class. Competition documents may group more than one class in an event, following the classification hierarchy at the Paralympic Games and championships. Placings may then be decided by Raza points, which compare performances across classes; decimals are dropped, and count only to break a tie.
How it works
- Normal rule: compete within your own class.
- Grouping: set in the entry documents for each competition.
- Major events: grouping follows the classification hierarchy tables.
- Placings: by time or distance, or by Raza points.
- Raza points: compare results across classes in one event.
- Rounding: decimals are dropped, so 1000.501 is 1000 points.
- Ties: only then are the decimals used.
- Exceptions: WPA may allow other groupings in limited cases.
The glossary has the competing outside the sport class, the Raza points system, the sport class code, the recognised competitions, the para athletics and the wheelchair racing classes.
Tricky cases
Two athletes score 1000.4 and 1000.2 points. Is it a tie?
No. The points tie at 1000, so the decimals break it.
Who decides whether points are used?
The organisers and the Technical Delegate.
Can a lower-impairment athlete move up a class?
No. Athletes compete in their assigned class unless an event groups classes.
Do the hierarchy tables apply at every meeting?
No. They apply in principle at the Paralympic Games and WPA Championships.
Why the rule exists
Some classes have too few athletes for their own event. Points let a fair result come from a mixed field.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Paralympic Games and championships | Hierarchy tables | R 9 |
| Other competitions | Set in entry documents | R 9 |
| Combined events | Points decide placings | R 9 |
From the rule book
World Para Athletics, Rules and Regulations, September 2026, Rule 9. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the World Para Athletics Rules and Regulations, September 2026.