Have Your Say: Consultation opens on the Provisional 2027 Para Sailing Classification Rules

Classification is at the heart of Para sport. It provides the framework that allows athletes with eligible impairments to compete in a fair, meaningful, and transparent way, ensuring that success is determined by skill, preparation, and performance on the water.

The new provisional rules represent a significant step forward for Para Sailing. They modernise the existing 2019 Classification Rules and incorporate the IPC 2025 Classification Code and International Standards, helping to create a globally consistent and internationally recognised classification system.

Importantly, these rules are still provisional.

We want to hear from the entire Para Inclusive Sailing community. Athletes, Member National Authorities, classifiers, coaches, organisers, classes and stakeholders are all encouraged to review the proposals and share their views as we shape the future of the sport together.

What is changing?

The proposed 2027 Rules introduce a modernised approach to classification, including:

• Alignment with the IPC 2025 Classification Code.
• A strengthened governance and decision-making framework.
• Clearer athlete pathways and classification processes.
• Updated procedures for Physical, Vision and Intellectual Impairment classification.
• A structured four-stage classification process, including Underlying Health Condition assessment, Eligible Impairment assessment, Minimum Impairment Criteria assessment and Sport Class allocation.
• Greater consistency and transparency across international events.

The objective is simple: to develop a classification system that is fair, credible, practical and fit for the future of Para Sailing.

Consultation and Testing Timeline

The consultation process has been designed to ensure that the new system is tested and refined in real competition environments before implementation.

9 June 2026

• Provisional 2027 Rules published.
• Consultation Period 1 opens.

Until 9 August 2026

• Consultation Period 1.

16–21 July 2026

• System testing at the RS Games, Germany.

25–31 August 2026

• System testing at the Eurasian Cup, India.

9 September 2026

• Provisional Rules presented to World Sailing Council for ratification.

1–10 October 2026

• Further live testing at the World Sailing Inclusion Championships.

9 September – 9 December 2026

• Consultation Period 2.

January 2027

• Adoption and implementation of the new Classification Rules.

This phased approach allows feedback from the community and practical event experience to directly influence the final rules before they come into force.

Have Your Say

World Sailing believes that the strongest classification system is developed through collaboration.

This consultation is an opportunity for the Para Inclusive Sailing community to help shape the future of the sport and support the continued growth of fair and accessible competition worldwide.

The provisional rules, consultation documents, and supporting resources are now available on the World Sailing Para Classification webpage.

To have your say, please use the portal on the World Sailing Classification webpage.

Together, we can continue to build a fair, consistent, and inclusive classification system that supports athletes at every level and strengthens Para Sailing’s journey towards the Paralympic Games.