If I get a penalty and think it's wrong, can I protest?
Rule- South Africa
- Triathlon South Africa
- World Triathlon rules
- Age-Group 16+
- 2026
- Athletes
Under World Triathlon rules 3.9 and 5.6:
- Drafting penalties can't be protested. If you don't stop at the next penalty box after a drafting penalty, you are disqualified.
- A time penalty you have served can't be protested. Serving it means you accept it.
- For other time penalties, you can choose not to serve it. You are then disqualified when you cross the finish line, but you may protest both the disqualification and the Head Referee's decision to give the penalty. Evidence is only made available if a protest is lodged.
- The Competition Jury then either dismisses the protest and confirms the disqualification, or upholds it, removing the penalty and reversing the disqualification.
Disqualification (rule 3.6): for severe violations, such as repeated drafting or dangerous or unsportsmanlike conduct, a Technical Official whistles, shows a red card and calls your number with "Disqualified". You may still finish the race. Disqualifications are posted on the board in the post-finish area. If you're told after finishing, you or your national federation have 5 days to tell the Technical Delegate if you want to appeal.
Updated 22 Oct 2026