Startfält

Startfält is a Swedish term used to describe the group of competitors that take part in an event from the start. It refers to the lineup or grid of entrants and can also indicate the size of the field. The concept is used across many sports and competition formats to denote who is eligible to start and how they are arranged at the beginning.

In racing contexts, startfältet is often organized into a starting grid, a fixed arrangement of positions that determines the order in which competitors begin the race. The grid is typically decided by results from qualifying sessions, practice times, or other selection methods, with the fastest participant earning pole position. In some series, other methods such as random draws or results from previous rounds may influence the starting order. The startfält can be reduced if entrants withdraw, are disqualified, or fail to meet entry requirements, which in turn changes the grid and field size and can affect race strategy.

In horse racing, the startfältet includes the horses qualified to start and the post positions assigned to them. The size of the field depends on the race rules, track conditions, and withdrawals. The term is also used in athletics and other sports to refer to all competitors who have started or are eligible to start a heat or round.

Etymology: from start and field. The term is widely used in Swedish sports journalism and official competition documentation to denote the lineup and size of participants at the start of an event.