Swimming / Topic 01
World Aquatics swimming rules
World Aquatics · 2026In short
What this guide covers · Check the competition programme
What this guide covers
These explanations use the supplied World Aquatics Competition Regulations, in force from February 2026. They cover pool swimming under those rules. Open water swimming, diving, water polo, artistic swimming and the separate Masters provisions are outside this guide.
Check the competition programme
The programme depends on the championship and pool length. Freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, individual medley and relays have their own events. Always check the organiser's entry conditions and event programme rather than assuming every distance is offered.
Independent explanations and translations, not official federation publications. Independent explanations of the supplied World Aquatics Competition Regulations, February 2026. This guide covers pool swimming only, not other aquatic disciplines. References use PDF viewer page numbers; topic numbers are editorial.
Sources & approach ↗
Sources & approach ↗