GUIDES · BETSLIP DOCTOR
Does a long-jump toe that breaks the take-off line make the attempt a foul?
Under TR30.1.1 in the retained 2026 World Athletics Technical Rules, a Long Jump attempt is a failure if the front part of the take-off foot or shoe breaks the vertical plane of the take-off line before contact with the board or ground ends. A loose shoe part such as a shoelace crossing by itself is not a failure. This explanation is limited to Long Jump and does not decide a real attempt.
For Long-jump viewers and athletes trying to understand a close take-off call. · Updated
The rule tests the front of the take-off foot or shoe
The timing matters as much as the line: the test applies while the athlete is still in contact with the take-off board or ground. If the front part of the take-off foot or shoe breaks the vertical plane before that contact ends, TR30.1.1 calls it a failure.
The rule's note says a loose part of the shoe, such as a shoelace, does not create a failure on its own. That is why a shoe-front crossing and a lace-only crossing are different examples.
Video requirements depend on the competition category
The 2026 rules specify video at 120 frames per second with at least 4K resolution for competitions under paragraphs 1(a) and 1(b) of the World Rankings Competition definition. For other competitions, that technology is strongly recommended; alternative systems may be used where access is limited, and a plasticine indicator board may still be used if no technology is available.
Do not describe the 120-fps and 4K standard as mandatory at every meet. The equipment note supports a judging process; it does not let this article decide a particular close call.
The cited history does not supply a new 2026 effective date
The rule-history table records TR30.1.1 changes approved and effective on July 30, 2020, and August 14, 2023. The separate July 2026 amendments sheet lists a CR32 U20 5000m Race Walk initial-record change; it does not list TR30.1.1. Those documents do not establish a new adoption or effective date for this rule.
Two fictional take-offs
In one hypothetical Long Jump, the front of the take-off shoe breaks the vertical plane before the athlete's contact ends; that matches the TR30.1.1 failure test. In a second, the shoe front stays behind the plane until contact ends but only a loose shoelace crosses; the note says the lace alone is not a failure. These examples explain the rule and do not assess a real jump.
Related questions
Does the Long Jump test automatically apply to Triple Jump?
This guide is limited to Long Jump. Check the applicable Triple Jump rule text separately instead of assuming the same test.
Does every competition have to use 120-fps, 4K video?
No. The 2026 text specifies it for competitions under paragraphs 1(a) and 1(b) of the World Rankings Competition definition. For other competitions it is strongly recommended, alternatives may be used if access is limited, and the rules retain a plasticine indicator option when technology is unavailable.