When am I disqualified, can I protest, and who can cross the finish line with me?

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Disqualification (IRONMAN Competition Rules 3.03): Three blue cards in one race means disqualification. A red card may be given for severe violations, such as repeated rule breaking, fraud (for example transferring your bib or timing chip to someone else), ignoring referees' or officials' instructions, or dangerous or unsportsmanlike conduct. A disqualified athlete may still finish unless a referee says otherwise. However, they are not eligible for age-group awards, including World Championship slots, and their splits aren't listed. More serious cases can lead to a suspension of 3 months to 4 years, or expulsion for life. Protests (rule 3.06): Protests and appeals are handled by the event's sanctioning body or national federation. You can't protest a "judgement call", which includes drafting and other cycling position calls, blocking, obstruction or interference, and unsportsmanlike conduct. You also can't protest a penalty you have already served, or anything a referee observed or has already ruled on. You can protest matters such as another athlete's eligibility, conduct or equipment. The finish (rules 2.05 and 6.03): You finish when any part of your torso crosses the vertical line from the leading edge of the finish gantry. Friends, family (including children), other spectators and animals may not cross the finish line or enter the finish chute with you. If they do, you are disqualified. Finishing before the course closes but outside a course or discipline cut-off is listed as "NC" (not classified). Crossing after the course closes is "DNF".