The Road to Weymouth: RS21 World Championship 2027 makes UK debut
by RS Sailing 5 Jul 04:00 PDT
22-25 September 2027
The countdown is on. As preparations accelerate for the RS21 World Championship 2027, excitement is building for what's set to be the biggest and most competitive event in the class' history. And, for the first time, the pinnacle event of the class with be held on home waters for RS Sailing.
Following the initial announcement of the Worlds 26/27 calendar in November 2025, the RS21 Class continues its commitment to publishing both national and international calendars well in advance, giving teams the confidence to plan campaigns, travel and training as the global fleet continues to grow. With more countries joining the class every year, the RS21 racing circuit is becoming one of the most exciting opportunities in international one-design keelboat racing.
The message is simple: #JoinTheRevolution.
Ultimate one-design racing comes to Weymouth
From 22-25 September 2027, sailors from across the globe will descend on the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA) for the first ever RS21 World Championship to be held in the United Kingdom.
RS21 International Class Manager, Liam Willis, is looking forward to racing at WPNSA, which is widely regarded as one of the world's premier sailing venues: "WPNSA offers everything needed for a championship of this calibre. I've been lucky enough to experience two RS Games at this venue - the first of which was a precursor to London 2012 Olympic Games." The venue combines a reliable sea breeze, varied race areas, outstanding shore facilities and straightforward launching options. "It's also got excellent transport links through nearby airports and ferry connections, making travel and logistics simple for overseas competitors," Liam adds.
Off the water, competitors can expect the renowned RS atmosphere with a packed social programme, bringing together sailors from around the world for four unforgettable days of racing and celebration.
A truly international championship
The RS21 International Class continues to grow from strength to strength, and the 2027 World Championship edition is expected to welcome more than 50 boats representing 15 or more nation - making it the largest and most internationally diverse fleet in the class' history.
"We anticipate the usual strong established fleets from our National Class Associations - Italy, the United Kingdom & Ireland, Poland, Canada, UAE and the Netherlands - to join. As well as the teams including private owners and club racers from Lithuania, Spain, Germany and Portugal!" highlights Liam.
Since the inaugural World Championship in 2022, the RS21 fleet growth has continued to gain momentum across the world. In the last year alone, club racing in Georgia has generated exciting early growth, while Greece welcomed its first fleet of six RS21s in 2026 and has launched the inaugural Hellenic Sailing League this summer. On the other side of the world, the RS21 has also been selected as the boat for the Australian Youth Match Racing Championship in October 2026, further highlighting its growing reputation as a platform for high-performance, tactical racing.
"This continued international growth means every World Championship is stronger than the last, with new teams, new rivalries and fresh talent joining an already fiercely competitive fleet," says Liam. "By the time the class arrives in Weymouth in 2027, the RS21 World Championship will truly represent the best of one-design keelboat racing from around the globe."
Who will be crowned World Champions?
The class has established a reputation for attracting world-class competition at some of Europe's premier sailing venues. Having visited Croatia, Italy and Spain, before heading to Cannes, France, in October 2026, the championship has consistently showcased the truly international nature of the RS21 fleet.
Across the Overall, Corinthian and Under 23 categories, the podium has welcomed champions representing Italy, Australia, Lithuania and Hong Kong, highlighting the depth of talent and global reach of the class.
The reigning Overall World Champions are Hong Kong's Les Freaks, who claimed the title in 2025 with an outstanding performance. As the fleet prepares to battle it out at Yacht Club de Cannes 28-30 October this year, the question is: who will earn the right to arrive in Weymouth in 2027 wearing the RS21 World Champion's crown?
One thing is certain - the competition has never been stronger, and the road to #RS21Weymouth2027 starts now.
Why the RS21?
Designed for pure racing, the RS21 has quickly established itself as modern take on the ultimate racing keelboat.
Its strict one-design philosophy means success comes from teamwork, preparation and sailing ability - not bigger budgets or expensive development. Every crew member has an important role onboard, making the boat engaging for experienced racers while remaining accessible for sailors stepping into keelboat competition.
Fast, responsive and rewarding to sail, the RS21 consistently delivers close, tactical racing where every shift, manoeuvre and decision matters. Whether you're campaigning internationally or racing with friends at your local club, the RS21 offers fair competition at every level.
Build your campaign to Weymouth
As the fleet builds towards the 2027 World Championship, RS Sailing is making it even easier for new teams to get involved with a range of exclusive offers.
New boat purchase
Purchase a new RS21 before the 2027 World Championship and receive:
- A free additional spinnaker featuring exclusive RS21 Worlds branding
- Keep your race spinnaker fresh while using the promotional sail throughout the season
Championship Spinnaker Offer
Purchase a new RS21 spinnaker and receive:
- 20% discount
- Complimentary RS21 Worlds branding
Class Membership Benefits
Become an RS21 Class member and enjoy:
- 30% discount on charter bookings at UK & Ireland events
Charter to Owner
Thinking about buying?
Charter an RS21 for an event and, if you subsequently purchase a boat and compete at the 2027 World Championship, your charter fee (up to one event) will be refunded.
Refer a Friend
Help grow the fleet and be rewarded. Successfully introduce a new RS21 owner and receive:
- £500 RS Sailing Store credit
- Redeemable against parts, sails and accessories before the 2027 World Championship
The journey starts now
Before the fleet arrives in Weymouth, attention turns to the 2026 RS21 World Championship, taking place 28-30 October in Cannes, where another chapter in the class's international story will be written.
From Cannes to Weymouth, the momentum behind the RS21 continues to grow, with more sailors, more countries and ever closer racing.
Whether your ambition is to challenge for the World Championship, compete in the Corinthian fleet, race nationally or simply experience one of sailing's fastest-growing international classes, now is the perfect time to get involved.
Join the revolution
There are more ways than ever to become part of the RS21 community:
The road to #RS21Weymouth2027 has begun.
We'll see you on the start line.