When is a ski mountaineering race stopped?
A · Advanced · On the track · 3 of 4A race can be stopped for weather, avalanche risk, an accident or a technical failure. A red flag means stop and go to the nearest transition area; a yellow or black and yellow flag means take care but go on. If the wind chill anywhere is colder than minus 20 °C, the race must not start.
How it works
- Who stops it: the LOC Race Director, after telling the Jury President or Event Director.
- Red flag: stop; go to the nearest transition area.
- Danger flag: take care; the race goes on.
- Results: by the last point each athlete reached.
- Wind chill: measured 40 minutes before the start.
- Colder than minus 20 °C: no start; delay or cancel.
- Minus 10 to minus 20 °C: a fourth layer can be required.
- Altitude: no racing above 4,500 m.
The glossary has the race stoppage, the wind chill rule, the altitude limits, the layers (ski mountaineering), the race checkpoint and the Technical Jury.
Tricky cases
The race is stopped halfway. Who wins?
Athletes are grouped by the furthest point reached, then by time or order there.
A sprint is stopped in the semifinals. Results?
By the last completed phase.
Can a start be delayed rather than cancelled?
Yes, by up to 2 hours once athletes are in the start area.
How long may athletes stay above 4,000 m?
No more than 2 hours.
Why the rule exists
Mountain races face weather that can turn dangerous fast. Set limits take the decision out of the moment and protect athletes.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Stopped at a timing point | Penalties added | 26.5.1 |
| Stopped at a checkpoint | Penalties ignored unless disqualifying | 26.5.1 |
| Above 3,500 m | No more than 4 hours | 24.2.8.2 |
From the rule book
ISMF, Rules & Guidelines, version 2026-2027, rules 23.4.2, 24.2.2, 24.2.8.1, 24.2.8.2, 26.5 and 26.5.1. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the ISMF Rules & Guidelines 2026-2027.