What gets a short track skater penalised?
B · Beginner · Infringements, relays and results · 4 of 4Five actions breach the racing rules: going off-track inside the corner blocks, impeding, assistance, kicking out and embellishment. They are punished only if they are clear and obvious and change the race. When two skaters cause minor contact together, the referee may rule shared responsibility, with no penalty for either.
How it works
- Off-track: a skate on the inside of the corner blocks.
- Impeding: blocking, charging, pushing or cutting across another skater.
- Assistance: help from another skater; not the relay push.
- Kicking out: a dangerous kick of the skate, including at the finish.
- Embellishment: faking or exaggerating contact.
- Clear and obvious: both the action and its effect.
- Shared responsibility: minor contact from both sides; no penalty.
- Principle: the race must be won on its merits.
The glossary has the off-track, the impeding, the assistance, the kicking out, the embellishment and the shared responsibility.
Tricky cases
A skater exaggerates a small bump and falls. What can the referee do?
Give no penalty, rule shared responsibility or penalise the embellishment.
Does stepping inside a block always cost a penalty?
Only if it is clear and obvious and affects the race.
Can teammates help each other in an individual race?
No. Assistance from other skaters is sanctioned for all involved.
Can the referee's decision be protested?
No. Decisions on infringements are final.
Why the rule exists
Some contact is unavoidable in a pack, so only fouls that change the outcome are punished. Penalising embellishment stops skaters diving to win a decision.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Individual races | Five infringements | ISU 295 (2) |
| Relays | Plus relay infringements | ISU 295 (4) |
| Team racing | Teammates may push each other | ISU 295 (5)(d) |
From the rule book
ISU, Sports Rules: Short Track (as of 12 June 2026), rules 295 (2) and 296 (1), with ISU, Short Track Guidance to the Racing Rules (2026/27), sections 1.1, 1.7 and 1.14. Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: the ISU Sports Rules and the season's Guidance.