World Sailing builds on momentum following IPC Classification Conference

Bringing together International Federations, National Paralympic Committees, classifiers and experts from across the Paralympic Movement, the conference focused on implementing the 2025 IPC Classification Code and, importantly, how organisations can work together to build fair, sustainable and athlete-centred classification systems.  

The conference theme, “Classification – A Shared Responsibility”, resonated strongly with World Sailing’s current direction. Throughout the week, the IPC emphasised that successful classification extends beyond technical assessment, requiring leadership, governance, education and collaboration across an entire organisation. This closely aligns with the work already underway within World Sailing.  

Over recent months, World Sailing has been progressing a wide-ranging programme of work to support implementation of the new Code. Alongside the development of new Classification Rules, the Federation has expanded its Compliance Action Plan to include governance, education, adaptive equipment, digital systems, classifier development and athlete support, ensuring classification is embedded across the organisation rather than treated as a standalone technical process.  

Several key themes emerged from the conference that will continue to shape World Sailing’s work:

• Building strong governance around classification, with clear organisational ownership.
• Investing in education and lifelong learning for classifiers, athletes and coaches.
• Developing practical operational systems alongside updated rules.
• Using digital platforms to improve athlete journeys and classification management.
• Supporting Member National Authorities to strengthen national classification pathways.
• Continuing to collaborate and share experiences across the Paralympic Movement.

The conference also highlighted the increasing importance of collaboration between International Federations. Through workshops, case studies and practical discussions, organisations shared examples of good practice covering governance, education, research, event delivery and athlete-centred services, reinforcing that the implementation of the new Code is a collective journey across Para sport.  

For World Sailing, the discussions provided reassurance that many of the initiatives already underway – including the Globocol classification platform, updated athlete guidance, operational workflows, regional education through Inclusive Development Programmes and ongoing classifier development – closely reflect the strategic direction being promoted by the IPC.  

Looking ahead, World Sailing will continue refining its classification programme through upcoming pilot events in India and at the World Sailing Inclusion Championships in Portugal, ensuring that learning from both international collaboration and practical event delivery continues to strengthen the sport. 

Hannah Stodel, Para World Sailing Manager, said: “One of the biggest messages from the conference was that classification is no longer simply about writing good rules. It’s about creating a system that is fair, transparent and centred around the athlete. It was encouraging to see that much of the work World Sailing has already undertaken aligns closely with the direction the IPC is promoting. There is still plenty to do, but we’re building strong foundations that will support sailors, classifiers and Member National Authorities for years to come.”