IRC 2025 Rule now published

Following ratification at the IRC International Congress, the IRC Rating Technical Committee has published the IRC 2025 Rule which takes effect from January 1, 2025 (in countries using a June-May validity period it will apply from June 1, 2025).

After the significant changes to the handicapping system introduced in 2024 – such as rating the number of headsails and the requirement for sail stamps – the 2025 updates focus on text refinements aimed at providing clarity, ensuring alignment with current sailing practices, and incorporating updates from the latest 2025-28 Equipment Rules of Sailing (ERS).

To clarify Rule 21.3.1 on sail sheeting and reduce potential confusion, it now explicitly specifies that sails cannot be sheeted from multiple points simultaneously. For sail measurement, IRC Rule 13.2 has also been updated to align with changes in the 2025-28 ERS, retaining the required characteristics of a measurement batten to determine sail corner points.

Additional updates include wording revisions to accommodate modern configurations, practices, and terminology. Rule 21.2.2, covering rig factors, now explicitly addresses rotating rigs (whether active or passive) and requires rig features to be declared at any time they are changed, rather than only at initial application. Furthermore, the updated definition of “stored power” supports a better understanding of what constitutes stored power versus crew-generated power.

An amendment to Rule 9.8 further enhances measurement precision by reducing the allowable weight discrepancy following data reviews and remeasurements, aligning with modern weighing methods and equipment. In response to recent examples, Rule 17.6 now specifies that internal ballast must be securely fastened or bonded in place, as defined by the ERS, to ensure proper and safe positioning.

For further details, visit the IRC website: https://ircrating.org/irc-rule/.

Source: IRC