How do para swimming relays work?
I · Intermediate · The race and results · 6 of 6Relay teams have four swimmers whose class numbers are added: the total may not exceed 20 points for 4 x 50 m and 34 for 4 x 100 m in S1 to 10, or 49 for vision classes, with at least one S11. Mixed relays have two men and two women. A swimmer leaving before the teammate touches disqualifies the team.
How it works
- Points: class numbers added.
- 4 x 50 m: up to 20 points, S1 to 10.
- 4 x 100 m: up to 34 points, S1 to 10.
- Vision relays: up to 49 points, with at least one S11.
- Mixed relays: two men and two women.
- Declaration: names, classes and order an hour before.
- Takeoff: not before the previous swimmer touches.
- Medals: to heat and final swimmers.
The glossary has the relay points, the vision impairment relay, the mixed relay, the relay declaration form, the relay takeoff and the medley relay order.
Tricky cases
A team swims in the wrong order. Result?
Disqualification.
Can the team change between heats and final?
Yes.
Do mixed relay splits count for records?
No.
Is a running start from the deck allowed?
No.
Why the rule exists
A points cap stops teams stacking their least-limited swimmers. It makes relay teams mix classes.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 4 x 50 m, S1 to 10 | 20 points | 11.7.7 |
| 4 x 100 m, S1 to 10 | 34 points | 11.7.7 |
| S11 to 13 | 49 points, one S11 | 11.7.8 |
From the rule book
World Para Swimming, Rules and Regulations, February 2026, sections 11.7 and 10.15.3. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the World Para Swimming Rules and Regulations, February 2026.