What action can a referee take if a fencer is consistently stalling?

A referee has the authority to maintain the flow and pace of a fencing match, ensuring that both fencers are engaged and actively participating. When a fencer is consistently stalling, it can disrupt the rhythm of the bout and diminish the quality of the competition. By issuing warnings or penalties for delays, the referee prompts the fencer to resume action and comply with the expected standards of conduct during the match.

This intervention serves multiple purposes: it upholds the integrity of the sport by discouraging unsportsmanlike behavior, ensures fairness by preventing one fencer from gaining an unwarranted advantage through stalling, and contributes to an engaging experience for both fencers and spectators. Effective refereeing includes enforcing rules that facilitate a dynamic and competitive atmosphere, making this approach appropriate and necessary.