Who has right of way in short track?
B · Beginner · The races · 3 of 4The skater in the lead has priority. A skater overtaking is responsible for any contact until they are level, side by side in the straight. A lead skater may change line in the straight only while their hips are ahead of the other skater's shoulders. A skater about to be lapped must move outside and not interfere.
How it works
- Lead priority: the skater in front has right of way.
- Overtaking: allowed at any time; the overtaker is responsible until level.
- Level position: side by side in the straight, before the end-of-straight zone.
- Lane change: only when the skater's hips are ahead of the other's shoulders.
- Track zones: straight, end of straight and corner, each with its own rules.
- Lapped skaters: move outside and do not interfere.
- Clicks of blades: two level skaters pushing at once is a race incident.
- Finish: leading blade tip on the line.
The glossary has the lead and priority, the level position, the lane change (short track), the outside pass, the inside pass and the lapped skater.
Tricky cases
A skater tries to pass but is always slightly behind. Who has priority?
The leader; the passer has not reached a level position.
Two level skaters' blades click. Penalty?
No, unless one made an exceptional move; it is a race incident.
A lapped skater stays in the lane and blocks the leaders. What happens?
A yellow card for not giving way.
Can a skater change line during a relay exchange?
No. Lane changes are not allowed during exchanges.
Why the rule exists
Clear priority tells skaters who must give way, which matters on a small, crowded track. Defining "level" decides the moment responsibility shifts.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Straight | Lane change only with hips ahead | Guidance 1.11 |
| End of straight | Priority may shift, by code | Guidance 1.10, 1.13 |
| Lapped skater | Yellow card if they impede | ISU 295 (1)(c); Guidance 1.8.2 |
From the rule book
ISU, Sports Rules: Short Track (as of 12 June 2026), rule 295 (1), with ISU, Short Track Guidance to the Racing Rules (2026/27), sections 1.2 to 1.13. Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: the ISU Sports Rules and the season's Guidance.