What should a referee consider when stopping a bout for an injury?

When a referee is tasked with stopping a bout due to an injury, the utmost priority must be the safety and health of the fencer. This principle is fundamental to the sport of fencing, as it ensures that athletes are not put at risk of further harm. The referee's responsibility includes assessing the situation to determine whether a fencer is in a condition to continue competing without risking exacerbation of an injury or causing a more severe incident.

This focus on safety directly aligns with the role of the referee as an authority figure responsible for the well-being of the athletes. In this respect, the referee must act promptly and judiciously, often calling for medical evaluation if there is doubt about the fencer's condition. This decision is vital not only to protect the individual fencer but also to maintain the integrity of the competition, ensuring that all athletes are able to perform at their best without being compromised by injury.

Other considerations such as penalties, reactions from the audience, or time left in the match should take a back seat to the primary concern which is the athlete's health, as neglecting this aspect could lead to serious consequences.