For Spectators
Can you watch a speedcubing competition? This page explains how spectators can follow the event and where they should stay during official attempts.
Spectators should respect the competition area, avoid distracting competitors and follow instructions from organisers and the WCA delegate.
Watching a speedcubing competition is a great way to experience the excitement, support a competitor and learn how official events work. This guide explains what spectators should expect and how to watch without distracting the competitors.
Each competition may have its own rules for spectators, tickets, seating and photography. Always check the official competition page before attending.
Before you go
Open the official competition page and check:
- the date, venue and room;
- the competition schedule;
- whether spectators need a ticket or advance registration;
- whether there is a spectator fee;
- whether the number of guests is limited;
- venue rules for food, drinks, bags and photography.
Some competitions welcome spectators for free, while larger events may require a ticket. Do not assume that entry conditions are the same at every competition.
If you are coming to watch a particular competitor or event, check the schedule before travelling. Times may change slightly during the day, so arrive early.
When you arrive
Follow signs or ask the organisers where spectators should enter and sit.
Do not enter areas marked for:
- competitors;
- scramblers;
- judges;
- competitor waiting groups;
- score taking and organisation staff.
These areas need to remain clear so the competition can run safely and on time.
Where to watch
Spectators must stay at least 1.5 metres away from solving stations that are in use.
Watch from the designated spectator area whenever one is provided. Do not stand behind a competitor, lean over a solving table or block the organisers’ walkways.
If seating is limited, allow parents of young competitors and people who need assistance to use the nearest available seats.
During official attempts
Competitors need to concentrate, especially during inspection, blindfolded events and final rounds.
While attempts are taking place:
- keep conversations quiet;
- put your phone on silent;
- do not call out a competitor’s name during a solve;
- do not clap until the attempt has clearly finished;
- do not make sudden noises close to the solving area;
- do not touch timers, mats, covers, puzzles or score sheets.
Applause and encouragement are welcome between attempts or when the organisers invite the audience to cheer.
Never give hints or information
Do not give a competitor hints, instructions or information during an official attempt.
This includes:
- calling out moves or solutions;
- pointing at the puzzle;
- showing hand signals;
- telling the competitor about a mistake;
- showing a timer or result that they should not yet see;
- discussing a scramble near competitors who may still receive it.
Even well-meant help can affect an official result. If you notice a problem, quietly tell an organiser or WCA Delegate instead of speaking to the competitor.
Photography and video
Photography and filming are often allowed, but the organiser and venue may set additional rules.
When taking photos or videos:
- stay inside the spectator area;
- do not block walkways or the view of officials;
- do not place equipment near a solving station;
- keep camera sounds turned off;
- avoid using flash unless the organisers clearly allow it;
- respect anyone who asks not to be photographed.
Do not move closer to the solving table just to get a better photo. A good recording is never more important than a fair attempt.
Supporting a competitor
You can help a competitor by making sure they arrive on time, have their puzzles and know when their group begins.
Before an event, avoid giving last-minute instructions that may make them nervous. During their attempts, watch quietly and let the judge handle the official procedure.
After the attempt, wait until the competitor has left the solving area before speaking to them. Do not approach the table while the result is being checked and signed.
Parents and guardians
Parents and guardians are welcome to support young competitors, but should normally remain in the spectator area during official attempts.
A parent should not stand beside the solving station, speak to the child during an attempt or help with the puzzle unless an organiser or WCA Delegate has specifically allowed an accommodation.
If your child needs special assistance, contact the organisation team before the competition whenever possible.
Visiting with children
Children should remain with a responsible adult.
Please make sure they:
- do not run through the competition area;
- do not touch puzzles or equipment;
- stay away from scrambling and score-taking tables;
- remain quiet during official attempts.
If a child becomes restless or noisy, step outside the competition area until they are ready to return.
Finals and awards
Final rounds are usually the best time to watch the fastest competitors. The organisers may introduce finalists, explain the format and invite the audience to cheer.
Follow the announcer’s instructions. Remain quiet while competitors are inspecting and solving, then applaud when the attempt or match has finished.
At the awards ceremony, keep aisles and the presentation area clear so winners, organisers and photographers can move safely.
Can spectators help?
Some competitions welcome help from parents, friends and experienced spectators. Simple tasks may include carrying covered puzzles or helping with venue organisation.
Do not begin judging, scrambling or moving competition equipment without permission. Ask an organiser how you can help and follow the instructions you receive.
If you see a problem
Speak quietly to an organiser or WCA Delegate if:
- someone is disturbing an active competitor;
- a child or spectator enters a restricted area;
- equipment is damaged or unsafe;
- someone appears to need medical assistance;
- you are unsure whether something is allowed.
Do not interrupt an attempt unless there is an immediate safety risk.
Quick spectator checklist
- Check the competition page before attending.
- Confirm whether a ticket or registration is required.
- Follow venue and organiser instructions.
- Stay at least 1.5 metres from active solving stations.
- Keep your phone silent.
- Never give hints or discuss unseen scrambles.
- Take photos only without distracting anyone.
- Keep children supervised.
- Cheer at the appropriate time and enjoy the competition.
A considerate audience makes the competition more enjoyable for competitors, officials and other spectators.