World Sailing Racing Rules of Sailing 2025-28
Rules Videos:
Racing Rules of Sailing 2025-28 Change Summary
Major Structural Changes:
1. Elimination of Basic Principles
- The Basic Principles section has been eliminated from the new definition of rules
- Fair sailing principles now incorporated directly into Rule 2
- Simplified rule structure focusing on enforceable rules
2. Notice of Race Requirements
- RRS 89.2 Notice of Race NOR now required to be written
- Previously could be oral, now must be documented
- Improved clarity for race administration
Key Rule Changes:
3. Rule 18.3 – Tacking in the Zone (Major Change)
- If a boat passes head to wind from port to starboard tack in the zone of a mark to be left to port, rule 18.2 does not apply between her and another boat on starboard tack that is fetching the mark
- Prevents boats from gaining unfair advantage by tacking in the zone
- Simplifies mark-room determination
4. Proper Course Definition
- Proper Course definition now incorporates the gist of Case 126
- Clarification of ‘sailing the course’ definition
- More tactical considerations allowed in proper course decisions
5. Room to Tack Procedures
- Formalisation of the hailing ‘Room to tack’ and reply
- Changes to the ‘Right-of-Way’ boat changing course at an obstruction’ rule
- Clearer communication requirements between boats
6. Rule 14 – Enhanced Collision Avoidance
- New requirement: boats must not cause contact between other boats
- Extends responsibility beyond just avoiding your own collisions
- Stronger emphasis on overall fleet safety
7. Rule 17 – Simplified Luffing Rules
- Removed exception for boats tacking into overlaps
- Changes “Slam Dunk” tactical scenarios significantly
- Clearer, simpler application of proper course requirements
8. Race Committee Signals
- Clarification to the ‘N’ flag meaning when displayed by the Race Committee
- Better alignment with Rule 40 (Personal Flotation Devices)
These changes show World Sailing’s continued focus on safety first (Rule 14) while simplifying complex tactical situations (Rule 17).