What should a referee do in the event of a double hit in foil?

In foil fencing, the concept of "right of way" is crucial in determining how points are awarded during a double hit scenario. When a double hit occurs, it is essential for the referee to assess which fencer had the right of way at the moment the touches were made. The right of way is a priority system that dictates who is considered to be the attacker and who is in a defensive position.

If one fencer is clearly identified as having initiated the attack, they are awarded the point, while the opposing fencer, even if they also landed a hit, does not receive a point if they were considered to be responding to that attack without right of way. Thus, determining which fencer had the right of way is fundamental to making the correct call in this situation, ensuring fairness and adherence to the rules of the sport.

Other options, such as concluding that both fencers receive a point or calling a halt to the match, do not align with the established rules regarding double hits in foil. Points are awarded based on the assessment of the right of way, so simply awarding both fencers a point would misrepresent the outcome and undermine the competitive integrity of the match.