Road confirmed toward Los Angeles 2028

The World Sailing Council and World Sailing Board met in person for the first time in over two years at the Mid-Year Meeting on May 26-29 held in Abu Dhabi, bringing together representatives from across the global sailing community, hosted by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council.

Across four days, the Events Committee, Equipment Committee, and the Board met to discuss the Olympic Sailing Program, culminating in the World Sailing Council meeting on May 29.

The Council comprises the World Sailing President, seven Vice-Presidents, two Officers of Honour (non-voting), twenty-eight appointed members (representing each of the regional groups of sailing nations), and representatives of the Offshore Committee, Classes Committee, Athletes’ Commission, and a Women’s Representative.

With the goal of providing certainty and stability for sailors, Member National Authorities (MNAs), and Classes over the next six years, Council approved retaining the current slate of ten Olympic Sailing events for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, subject to approval by the International Olympic Committee.

However, for the Mixed Multihull event, Council approved measures to address the cost and quality of the Nacra 17 Class equipment following concerns over the expense incurred by MNAs in competing in the event.

“This decision provides certainty to sailors, MNAs, and Classes who can remain focused on Paris 2024 equipment continuing to LA28,” noted World Sailing Vice President Sarah Kenny. “However, the issues noted in relation to our current events and equipment, particularly the cost and quality of existing equipment, continues to be a priority for World Sailing and we must work with all stakeholders to improve the situation.

“The Board also acknowledges the rapid growth and interest in Wingfoiling and the real potential of the discipline to be an exciting, engaging, and universal event for our Olympic Sailing program.”

Other issues addressed at the meeting were:
• Council unanimously approved the application of the Saudi Sailing Federation to become a full Member National Authority.

• The L30 Class and International Techno Wind Foil 130 Class Association both received World Sailing Class status.