Consultation on the Provisional 2027 Para Sailing Classification Rules opened on 9 June 2026, with the first submission window running until 9 August 2026. Athletes, coaches, classifiers, organisers, classes, and Member National Authorities are all invited to review the proposals and submit feedback.
The revised rules update the existing 2019 Classification Rules and are built around the IPC 2025 Classification Code and International Standards, bringing Para Sailing into line with the broader Paralympic movement's approach. Key changes include a structured four-stage classification process covering Underlying Health Condition assessment, Eligible Impairment assessment, Minimum Impairment Criteria assessment, and Sport Class allocation.
The framework also introduces clearer athlete pathways, updated procedures for Physical, Vision and Intellectual Impairment classification, a strengthened governance structure, and greater consistency and transparency across international events.
Before the rules go to the World Sailing Council for ratification on 9 September 2026, they will be tested in live competition at the RS Games in Germany (16–21 July) and the Eurasian Cup in India (25–31 August). Further testing follows at the World Sailing Inclusion Championships from 1–10 October 2026. A second consultation period runs from 9 September through to 9 December 2026, with final adoption scheduled for January 2027.
The phased approach is deliberate, giving real-world competition experience a direct line into the final rules before they come into force.
Classification sits at the core of Para sport, providing the structure that allows athletes with eligible impairments to compete on genuinely equal terms. The stated objective is a system that is fair, credible, practical, and fit for the future of the discipline as Para Sailing continues its journey towards the Paralympic Games.
The provisional rules, consultation documents, and supporting resources are available on the World Sailing Para Classification webpage, where a submission portal is open for community feedback.
