9 reasons athletes can be disqualified at the Olympics

There are various reasons why athletes have been disqualified from the Olympic Games over the years.

Yesterday, Kenyan record-holder Faith Kipyegon was temporarily disqualified before being reinstated after the end of the 5000m race final.

Here are some common causes of disqualification:

1. False Start: A runner who false starts is immediately disqualified. This rule applies to all runners, whether in a preliminary heat or the final. A false start is any significant motion by an athlete's hand or foot that initiates forward movement before the starting gun is fired.

2. Rule Violations in Swimming Transitions: In swimming, there are specific rules governing transitions between strokes during medley events. For example, transitioning from backstroke to breaststroke involves changing from facing up to facing down in the water. Violating these rules can result in disqualification.

3. Cheating or Unfair Practices: Any form of cheating, doping, or gaining an unfair advantage can lead to disqualification.

4. Political Provocation: In rare cases, athletes have been disqualified for making political statements or taking actions during the games.

5. Infractions of Sport-Specific Rules: Each Olympic sport has its own set of rules. Athletes may lose medals for violating these rules, pending ratification by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

6. Doping Violations: These often involve banned substances like anabolic steroids, which increase muscle mass and strength, or stimulants such as caffeine, cocaine, and amphetamines. Testing positive for these drugs can result in disqualification. Even athletes with medical conditions requiring medication must ensure their medications are not on the prohibited list and file the necessary paperwork to avoid sanctions.

7. Lane Violation: In track and field, athletes must stay within their assigned lanes. Stepping out of the lane can lead to disqualification.

8. Obstruction: Intentionally impeding another athlete’s progress can result in disqualification. For instance, Faith Kipyegon, a Kenyan athlete, was disqualified from the Olympic 5,000-meter race during the Paris Olympics for "obstruction" following an incident with Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay.

9. Equipment Violations: Using incorrect attire or equipment can lead to disqualification.