IRC Congress announces key updates for 2025

Roschier Baltic Sea Race 2024 © RORC / Pepe Korteniemi pepe@photex.fi

Two decades ago, the first International Rating Certificate (IRC) annual Congress was held in London following IRC's recognition as an World Sailing International Rating System.

Twenty years on, in IRC's 40th anniversary year, the 2024 IRC Congress hosted by Dubai Offshore Sailing Club brought together a diverse group of attendees from around the world including representatives from Europe, Asia and Australasia, and the Royal Ocean Racing Cub and Yacht Club de France as owners of the IRC Rule. This global representation highlighted the IRC's extensive reach and commitment to international collaboration in sailing, with delegates from sailing associations, yacht clubs, and rating committees all contributing to the discussions aimed at advancing the sport across different regions.

The IRC Technical Committee proposed several rule changes for 2025, which are minimal, practical changes to improve clarity and include: clear wording that internal ballast must be securely fixed, and around the declaration of unusual rig features, including rotating rigs; clarification about sheeting sails from multiple points; updates to match the updated Equipment Rules of Sailing (ERS) 2025 to 2028, regarding sail measurement battens. The definition of stored power. There was also extensive discussion around sail limitations at events, with the consensus being no change to the current IRC rules. These changes aim to maintain fair competition while reflecting evolving technology and sailing practices.

Youth engagement continues to be a priority. Various regions reported on efforts to bring younger sailors into the sport, tackling challenges such as boat ownership and long-term event commitment, and highlighting the need for more proactive measures from both owners and event organisers to encourage and retain young people in the yacht racing community. Another notable outcome from the meeting was the value of equipment inspections in educating sailors and promoting compliance, whether at events or on an individual basis. These measurement checks not only improve rule understanding but also ensure a level playing field for competitors.

The IRC Congress remains committed to adapting to changing dynamics in sailing and supporting growth, fairness, and the enjoyment of the sport worldwide.

IRC Congress 2024 Minutes, papers and 2025 rule changes: ircrating.org/about/irc-congress