Celebrating Excellence: Dr. Jürgen Schwittai honoured with IPC Classification Recognition Award

This prestigious honour celebrates individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the advancement of classification within the Paralympic Movement. For over 30 years, Jürgen has served as an International Classifier, including as Head of Classification for World Sailing, and has supported Para athletes at multiple Paralympic Games. 

A true pioneer in his field, Jürgen was instrumental in the creation and evolution of Para Sailing’s sport classes, helping to establish the structures that enable athletes with different types and levels of impairment to compete fairly and equitably on the world stage. His technical expertise, precision, and unwavering commitment to integrity have been the backbone of Para Sailing’s credibility and growth within the Paralympic Movement. 

Beyond his professional achievements, Jürgen is also an avid sailor himself – having competed in many of World Sailing’s Para classes over the years, often giving the athletes he classifies “a run for their money.” His love for the water and deep understanding of the athlete experience have shaped his empathetic, athlete-centred approach to classification. 

Across three decades, Jürgen has trained and mentored countless classifiers, officials, and volunteers around the world, embedding professionalism, empathy, and inclusion at every level. His influence extends far beyond sailing, helping to raise global standards of classification and athlete welfare throughout the Paralympic community. 

“Jürgen has been a guiding voice within World Sailing for as long as most of us can remember. His depth of knowledge, quiet strength, and constant willingness to help others have shaped not just our systems, but the people within them. He has guided so many of us – myself included, with patience, wisdom, and a genuine love for the sport. This recognition is so well deserved,” said Hannah Stodel, Para & Inclusive Sailing Manager, World Sailing. 

The IPC will formally present the award to Jürgen during the 2025 IPC Annual Classification Conference in Bonn, Germany. To celebrate this moment, World Sailing’s Para Inclusive community has created a global video tribute, featuring classifiers, sailors, and coaches from around the world sharing their messages of gratitude and congratulations. 

World Sailing extends its heartfelt thanks and congratulations to Dr. Jürgen Schwittai. His decades of service, leadership, and passion have not only shaped Para Sailing, but they have also strengthened the very foundations of inclusion within our sport.