How are times adjusted in para cross-country?
B · Beginner · Categories and classes · 3 of 3Each class has a percentage set by a factors group. Real time, cut to a tenth or hundredth, is multiplied by it to give the calculated time, which ranks interval races and sprint qualifying. Delta time shows how much faster in real time a skier needed to be. For pursuits, basic time sets start gaps, so more impaired skiers start earlier.
How it works
- Percentage: per class, approved each season.
- Real time: finish minus start.
- Calculated time: real time times percentage.
- Rounded: to a tenth; a hundredth in sprint qualifying.
- Delta time: real-time gap to tie the winner.
- Basic time: sets pursuit start gaps.
- Lower percentage: starts earlier.
- Technique factor: standing and VI, when technique changes.
The glossary has the percentage system, the real time, the calculated time, the delta time, the basic time and the technique factor.
Tricky cases
Are time adjustments made before the percentage?
Yes, except time penalties.
What is the classical to free technique factor?
0.88.
Why show delta time?
So skiers see their real-time gap.
Who approves the percentages?
The Para Snowsports Committee.
Why the rule exists
Starting slower classes earlier in pursuits means the first across the line is the winner.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Interval | Calculated time | R 12317.5 |
| Pursuit | Basic time | R 12316.8 |
| Technique change | Factor | R 12316.8.2 |
From the rule book
FIS, International Competition Rules, Para Cross-Country (9 July 2026), articles 12316.8 and 12317. Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: FIS ICR Para Cross-Country and Para Nordic Classification Rules.