Protest RoomCase 72
Updated: 2026-03-27
Discussion of the word ‘flag’.
Question
What is the test of whether an object is a flag within the meaning of rule 60.2(a) (1)?
Answer
In the context of rule 60.2(a)(1), a flag is used as a signal to communicate the message, ‘I intend to protest.’ Only if the object used as a flag communicates that message, with little or no possibility of causing confusion on the part of those on competing boats, will the object qualify as a flag. A flag must be seen primarily to be a flag.