Chapter 9: Eyes and Ocular Integrity

FIMP Code of Competition & Technical Handbook · 2026–2029 Edition (in force from 1 January 2026)

Article 9.1: Closed eyes

1. 9.1.1The Marco shall keep both eyes fully closed for the whole chukka.
2. 9.1.2In all Finals, and in any heat with Hawk-Ear coverage, the Marco shall wear FIMP-approved Category-5 blackout goggles (Appendix E) over closed eyes.
3. 9.1.3Goggles shall be fitted and sealed by an Ocular Integrity Judge in the presence of the athlete's coach.
4. 9.1.4Any measurable eyelid separation by the Marco during a chukka voids every tag made by that Marco in that chukka.

Article 9.2: Ocular Integrity Judges

1. 9.2.1Two Ocular Integrity Judges shall be assigned to each Marco. They shall be positioned at opposite ends of the basin.
2. 9.2.2All Finals shall be filmed by an overhead camera at no less than 250 frames per second for ocular review.
3. 9.2.3An ocular review may be requested by any coach within 30 minutes of the end of the heat. The fee for a review is CHF 200, refunded if the review is upheld.