On 23 November 2012, the International Shooting Sport Federation instituted new rules to the competition format designed to enhance the sport's appeal to youth, to make it more spectator and media friendly, and to keep the competitions fair and transparent.

The most significant change to the rules was the new final format for all Olympic events, where all finalists must start from scratch.

Furthermore, all finals featured an elimination stage, until the competition ended up with duels between the two shooters to decide the gold and silver medals.

[3][4] Throughout the process, quota places were generally awarded when a shooter earns a gold medal in an ISSF World Cup series or posts a top finish at the ISSF World Championships or the continental championships (Africa, Europe, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas).

Brazil did not qualify through the World Championships, rather its nine places were guaranteed due to it being the host nation.