What is the baton length range used in Olympic relay races?

The baton used in Olympic relay races must measure between 28 and 30 centimetres long.

Relay athletes pass a hollow, smooth tube rather than a solid stick. World Athletics rules specify a circular baton with a length of 28–30 cm and a mass of at least 50 g. Its bright color helps officials and spectators track it during fast exchanges.

The baton must be carried throughout the race. In the 4 × 100 m and 4 × 400 m relays, teams must complete exchanges inside designated takeover zones. Dropping the baton does not automatically disqualify a team if the athlete who dropped it retrieves it without shortening the course or interfering with another team.

The baton’s size is distinct from the length of the exchange zone, which is much longer and has changed under modern rules.