Tokyo Olympics: why wrestlers must be clean shaven or have a beard, why water polo players must cut their toenails and other obscure rules for athletes
- As the world’s best try to fight their way to Games glory, there are a host of unique rules fans might not be aware of
- Gymnasts are allowed to compete in socks, runners don’t have to wear shoes and sailors must carry a drinking container
As the world’s best athletes try to fight their way to Olympic glory, what you might not see are a host of rules they have to reckon with to ensure they can play on competition day.
Although some are clearly intended to prevent disruptions or unfair advantage, many others may seem strange or downright quirky – such as being prohibited from sweating before a wrestling match or being allowed to run with only one shoe.
Here is a look at some of the weird and wonderful rules of Olympics competition.
Swimming
Soul Cap, an extra-large swimming cap from L to XXL size, was created to provide an alternative for swimmers with large hairstyles or dreadlocks. Since the cap was launched four years ago, more than 30,000 have been shipped out.
Following public criticism, Fina said it understood the importance of inclusivity and would revisit the decision.
Gymnastics
