Standstill period

The waiting period between the award decision and contract signature, during which an appeal is still possible.

The standstill period runs from the publication of the award decision until the contract is signed with the successful bidder. Unsuccessful bidders can appeal during this period.

It protects the right to appeal because a challenge filed after signature may have little practical effect. The award publication states the exact duration and the competent appeal body.

A bidder who receives an award decision or a rejection should check the stated deadlines immediately. Once the standstill period has passed, an appeal against the award is generally no longer possible.