The 100m is often deemed the blue ribbon Olympic event, marking the fastest men and women in the world. 

On the biggest stage, a false start is most athletes biggest fear and can change the entire outcome of the race. 

Linford Christie is one of GB's most famous athletes who fell foul to the false start back in 1996. 

However, the rules have changed since Atlanta, so here's everything you need to know about the false start rule in athletics. 

What is the false start rule in athletics? 

Currently in athletics, one false start equals instant disqualification. 

The rule changed in 2010; previously one false start resulted in a warning to the entire field, while a second led to disqualification regardless of the athlete.

It meant that one athlete could false start without disqualification, but if there was a second by another athlete, the racer responsible would be instantly disqualified.  

Now, anyone who false starts will be disqualified immediately.

The rule changed in part due to scheduling issues, because false starts made it impossible to keep to prearranged times. 

However, speculation over some runners deliberately false starting to load pressure onto racers who were fast out of the blocks also contributed to the decision. 

A false start is registered when an athlete moves faster than 0.1 seconds after the gun. 

Since the new rule was introduced, the number of false starts at major events has reduced hugely. 

When a false start has occurred, the starter will shoot the gun twice to inform the field. 

The referee will then hold up a red card to the offending athlete.