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Sequential elimination contests with repechage

Author

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  • Wang, Zijia

Abstract

We study a three-stage sequential elimination contest with repechage. In the first stage, all the contestants compete against each other, and some advance directly to the third stage while the others enter the second stage to compete for the opportunity to proceed to the third stage. The finalists in the third stage then compete against each other for the final prize. Compared to a sequential elimination contest without repechage, the contest with repechage induces a strictly higher overall contest effort as well as a higher expected total effort from the prize winner. This result helps to explain the prevalence of repechage in some real-world tournaments or competitions.

Suggested Citation

  • Wang, Zijia, 2026. "Sequential elimination contests with repechage," Journal of Mathematical Economics, Elsevier, vol. 122(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:mateco:v:122:y:2026:i:c:s0304406825001272
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jmateco.2025.103210
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    JEL classification:

    • C7 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory
    • D7 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making

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