Disqualified

Disqualified denotes the status of being declared ineligible or having one’s results invalidated following a judgment by an authority or organizer. This status is used across many domains to uphold fairness, safety, and compliance with rules. A person, team, or entry may be disqualified temporarily or permanently, depending on the severity of the violation and the governing rules. The decision is typically made by a relevant authority after review, investigation, or at the conclusion of a hearing, and may be subject to an appeal.

Common contexts include sports and competitions, where an athlete or team may be disqualified for cheating, doping, using prohibited equipment, or violating event rules. In examinations or professional licensing, candidates may be disqualified for cheating, misrepresentation, or failing to meet eligibility requirements. In elections or legal proceedings, disqualification can refer to ineligibility to run for office or to participate due to conflicts of interest or violations of qualifications. Disqualification can also result from administrative issues, such as noncompliance with procedures, missing deadlines, or identity problems.

Consequences typically include forfeiture of prizes and results, exclusion from the current event, and possible long-term bans or loss of credentials. Individuals may have the right to appeal to a higher authority or request reinstatement under specified conditions. The term emphasizes that eligibility is a prerequisite for participation and that violations may remove that eligibility.