What are the latest rule changes?
The FIE Rules of Competition were completely revised for the 1998 season. Although the wording of the rules is for the most part similar, the article numbers and locations of particular rules are completely different. DISCIPLINE: – Crossing the boundary of the piste with one or both feet results in a halt, and the loss of 1 metre of ground by the offending fencer. Hits launched before the halt by the offending fencer are valid only if one foot remains on the piste. If both feet leave the piste, only the hit made by the opposing fencer is counted, and only if one of their feet remains on the piste. (2002) – Falling is no longer an offence. (2002) – Immediate penalty (Group I/yellow card) if a fencer signals he/she is ready to fence with an illegal bend to their blade. (2002) – Only team members and trainer are permitted inside the designated team zone during team competitions. Penalties for violating this rule are directed against the team, and remain valid for the duration of the match
Most of the following rule amendments were introduced for the 1994/95 season. EQUIPMENT: – In foil, the bib is on target as of Oct 1, 1995. [This amendment appears to have been put off indefinitely. This rule is NOT expected to take effect anytime soon.] – 800N underarm protector (plastron) is required in addition to the regular 800N jacket. – Clothing may be of different colours, but those on the body must be white or light-coloured. – Minimum width of the strip is now 1.5 metres. ETIQUETTE: – Salute of opponent, referee, and audience is mandatory at the start and end of the bout. BOUT FORMAT: – Coin flip to determine winner in the event of a tie shall be made at end of regulation time, and one additional minute shall be fenced. The winner of the coin toss shall be recorded as the victor if the bout is not resolved by sudden death in the extra minute. – No more 1-minute warning, although fencers can request the time remaining at any normal halt in the action. – Fencers shall be placed
The FIE Rules of Competition were completely revised for the 1998 season. Although the wording of the rules is for the most part similar, the article numbers and locations of particular rules are completely different. DISCIPLINE: – Leaving the piste with one or both feet earns a verbal caution for first offense, and group 1 penalties thereafter. (1998) – In sabre, any action in which the rear leg is crossed in front of the fore is a group 1 penalty, with the hit annulled. A correctly executed touch from the opponent is still valid. (1994) – Salute of opponent, referee, and audience is mandatory at the start and end of the bout. Failure to do so is a group 3 penalty (if by one fencer at start of bout), group 4 penalty (if by both fencers at start or end of bout), suspension (if by loser at end of bout), or annullment of hit (if by winner at end of bout). (1994) EQUIPMENT: – 800N underarm protector (plastron) is required in addition to the regular 800N jacket. (1994) – Clothing may be of
