Recognizing classification for para sailing

Sailing may not be a Paralympic sport, but it remains on the radar of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) which has named Dr. Jürgen Schwittai as one of the recipients of the 2025 IPC Classification Recognition Award.

This honor celebrates individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the advancement of classification within the Paralympic Movement. For over 30 years, Schwittai has served as an International Classifier, including as Head of Classification for World Sailing, and has supported Para athletes at multiple Paralympic Games.

A true pioneer in his field, he was instrumental in the creation and evolution of Para Sailing’s sport classes, helping to establish the structures that enable athletes with different types and levels of impairment to compete fairly and equitably on the world stage.

For World Sailing, his technical expertise, precision, and unwavering commitment to integrity have been the backbone of Para Sailing’s credibility and growth within the Paralympic Movement since being removed as a sport following the Rio 2016 Games.

Beyond his professional achievements, Schwittai is also an avid sailor himself – having competed in many of World Sailing’s Para classes over the years, often giving the athletes he classifies “a run for their money.” His love for the water and deep understanding of the athlete experience have shaped his empathetic, athlete-centered approach to classification.

Across three decades, he has trained and mentored countless classifiers, officials, and volunteers around the world, embedding professionalism, empathy, and inclusion at every level. His influence extends far beyond sailing, helping to raise global standards of classification and athlete welfare throughout the Paralympic community.

“Jürgen has been a guiding voice within World Sailing for as long as most of us can remember. His depth of knowledge, quiet strength, and constant willingness to help others have shaped not just our systems, but the people within them,” said Hannah Stodel, Para & Inclusive Sailing Manager, World Sailing.

“He has guided so many of us – myself included, with patience, wisdom, and a genuine love for the sport. This recognition is so well deserved,”

The IPC will present the award during the 2025 IPC Annual Classification Conference in Bonn, Germany.

Source: World Sailing