Track & Field

Track & Field Rule Changes

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  Track and Field Rules Changes - 2027

  July 08, 2026

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  3-2-3r (NEW): Allows the games committee flexibility in determining if reporting for a field event is by event or by flight.

  Rationale: Offers flexibility to determine when an athlete must report for a field event by allowing at the beginning of the event or beginning of the flight.

   

  6-2-8 (NEW): Emphasizes safety in field event warm-ups by preventing backward-over-the-head or similar-style attempts.

  Rationale: Warm-up attempts by athletes with their back to the sector are dangerous, as it destroys the vital sightline needed to verify the area is clear. This change maintains a clear line of sight to verify that the landing area is safe and clear before a thrower makes an attempt.

   

  6-2-15b (NEW): Prevents additional substances from being applied in throwing events and reorganizes the section for clarity.

  Rationale: The change addresses the growing use of foreign substances on shoes in throwing events. The section has been reorganized to provide coaches and officials with clearer, more accessible guidance.

   

  6-8-6: In vertical jumps, offers officials flexibility in providing athletes warm-up at the height change if the 60 min mark already occurred or would occur during the height that is about to begin.

  Rationale: To address instances where the 60-minute mark occurs mid-height before the athlete made their first attempt, this alternative rule change grants affected athletes the opportunity to warm up. It maintains the requirement that warm-ups take place during a height change while giving the contest official the flexibility to make a judgment call based on the situation.

   

  2027 Editorial Changes

  5-3-3 NOTE, 5-4-3, 5-12-1e

  2027 Points of Emphasis

  1. Throws Safety – Shot Put, Discus and Javelin

  2. Athlete Conduct

  3. Preventive Officiating

  4. Coaching Responsibilities