When is a short track race restarted?
I · Intermediate · Infringements, relays and results · 3 of 4If an irregularity may affect the result, the referee may stop the race and order an immediate restart, or a re-run after the race. Skaters sanctioned for conduct before the stop do not take part. A skater for whom the race was stopped on safety grounds is out of the restart, unless a technical problem beyond their control caused it.
How it works
- Stop: the referee may stop a race for an irregularity.
- Restart: usually at once; it may be moved later in the programme.
- Re-run: if the distance was completed, with rest time.
- Sanctioned skaters: out of the re-run.
- Skater the race was stopped for: out, unless a technical failure beyond their control.
- Broken equipment: a skater who cannot repair it in time does not restart.
- Relays: substitution allowed in a restart.
- Early interference: before the first curve's last block, the start is called back.
The glossary has the re-run and restart, the padding, the skater safety equipment, the sanctions, the relay and the clear and obvious.
Tricky cases
A skater falls and the race is stopped for their safety. Can they restart?
No, unless they fell for a clear technical reason beyond their control.
A skater's blade breaks and the race is stopped. Restart?
Only if it can be repaired in time; otherwise they are a DNF.
Can a relay team change skaters for a restart?
Yes. Substitution within the team is allowed.
Is a restart the same as a re-run?
A restart follows a stopped race; a re-run is ordered after the distance was completed.
Why the rule exists
Stopping a race protects a fallen skater. Excluding sanctioned skaters stops a foul from earning a second chance.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Stopped race | Restart | ISU 296 (1)(o) |
| Completed race | Re-run | ISU 296 (1)(o) |
| At the start | Recall if interfered with early | ISU 294 (12) |
From the rule book
ISU, Sports Rules: Short Track (as of 12 June 2026), rules 294 (1), (12) and 296 (1)(o) to (r). Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: the ISU Sports Rules and the season's Guidance.