What should a referee do in the event of a disagreement among judges?

In the event of a disagreement among judges, the referee should make the final decision based on observation. This approach aligns with the referee's primary responsibility to maintain the integrity of the competition by ensuring that decisions are made objectively and based on their firsthand evaluation of the bout. The referee is trained to watch the action closely and is accountable for enforcing the rules, making them uniquely positioned to determine the outcome when discrepancies arise among the judges.

While consulting with the judges can be part of the process, ultimately, it is the referee who holds the authority to interpret the events on the piste. Personal bias must always be set aside to uphold fairness and impartiality in the sport. Referring to the coaching staff is not appropriate in this scenario, as it could undermine the referee's authority and lead to conflicts of interest. Therefore, relying on direct observation allows the referee to make an informed and equitable judgment, preserving the competitive spirit and fairness of the event.