Section 5: Rules of Play
5.1 Classic Technique Rules
- Skating movements strictly prohibited on flat and uphill terrain; both skis must remain in the set tracks
- Herringbone (V-step without glide) permitted on steep uphills only
- Snowplow permitted for downhill braking
- Stepping out of the track to pass is permitted; the overtaking skier must return to a track after passing
- Double-poling (using only arms without kick) is permitted as a classic technique
- Technique violations detected by controllers stationed along the course with video equipment
5.2 Free Technique Rules
- Any technique permitted, including skating (V-skate, marathon skate) and classic movements
- No set tracks on the course; athletes choose their own line within the groomed corridor
- Overtaking: the athlete being overtaken must yield the preferred line when the faster athlete comes alongside
5.3 Skiathlon Format
- First half raced in classic technique; second half in free technique
- Transition zone: athletes remove classic skis and boots, switch to skating equipment. No time added; clock runs continuously.
- All equipment must be pre-positioned in the transition zone before the race starts
- Athletes must complete the classic leg before entering the transition zone
5.4 Relay Rules
- Men: 4×10 km (legs 1–2 classic, legs 3–4 free). Women: 4×5 km (same technique order).
- Exchange: body contact (hand tag) required for a valid exchange in the 30 m exchange zone
- All teams start simultaneously (mass start for the first leg)
- Leg order and technique for each leg are pre-determined by the organizers
5.5 Team Sprint
- Teams of 2 athletes alternate legs (3 legs each, 6 legs total)
- Sprint distance per leg: 1.0–1.8 km (free technique)
- Semifinal heats and final; same advancement rules as individual sprint
- Body-contact exchange in the exchange zone required
5.6 Overtaking and Obstruction
- An athlete being overtaken must move to one side and yield the fastest line
- In classic races, the overtaken athlete must leave the track within 15 m of the faster athlete coming alongside
- Deliberate obstruction is a violation subject to time penalty or DSQ
- In sprint heats, athletes may not make lateral movements to block overtaking