World Sailing Status Update and Boom Vote Result

[B14 Sailing Europe]

Dear B14 Class Association Members and Supporters,

World Sailing Status Update
 
We are writing to update you on the recent change to the B14 class’s status with World Sailing. As some of you may know, World Sailing has withdrawn the B14’s official class status as of November 2025, due to the class not meeting the required minimum global distribution of at least 15 boats in each of five Member National Authorities (countries).

Although this outcome is disappointing, particularly following representations made by the World Council to highlight the B14’s unique place in the sport and to retain its World Sailing status, the change does not affect our ability to continue running events under the Racing Rules of Sailing or in cooperation with national authorities such as the RYA and Australian Sailing.

What This Means for the Class

Events will Continue: B14 regattas will continue as they have in the past. The only significant change is that events can no longer be named “World Championships.” An alternative naming convention will be adopted.

Torquay 2026 Proceeding as Planned: The 2026 international event in Torquay remains fully supported by both the World Council and the Royal Torbay Yacht Club.

Reduced Event Costs: With the removal of World Sailing requirements, including the need for an International Jury, the cost of delivering international events will decrease. This will provide some financial benefit to competitors and host clubs alike.

Following a Proven Path: Other successful classes operate without World Sailing recognition, including the International 18 Foot Skiff class, which continues to run its well-regarded JJ Giltinan International Championship. This demonstrates that a class can remain active, competitive, and internationally appealing without formal World Sailing status.

Looking Ahead

The World Council will continue to support the class and work with national associations to ensure the B14 remains a strong, competitive option for sailors in all regions. While this change introduces some adjustments, the core of what makes B14 sailing enjoyable and rewarding remains the same.

We will provide further information about the 2026 Torquay event shortly. In the meantime, we look forward to seeing many of you at upcoming events in the UK, Australia, and elsewhere.

Carbon Boom Approved – Class Legal from July 2026
 
The B14 Class Association vote on the Carbon Boom rule change closed on 31 December 2025, with strong member support, 88% in favour and 12% against, confirming a clear mandate for introducing a controlled carbon boom option.

Following the 2025 Sydney World Championships, where members approved further investigation, the Technical Group recommended developing the carbon boom to a consistent, tightly controlled specification to ensure fairness and uphold the class’s one-design philosophy.

Approved carbon booms will be available exclusively through World Council–approved builders/suppliers in the UK and Australia, ensuring consistent quality and performance. The estimated cost is GBP £800–£900 (AUD $1,300–$1,400), balancing performance benefits with affordability.

The alloy boom will remain mandatory for the Torquay 2026 European and International Championships. From 1 July 2026, the approved carbon boom will become class legal for use at all B14 open, traveller, national, and international events. The alloy boom may continue to be used beyond this date to maintain fairness and accessibility across the fleet.

This strong vote demonstrates the class’s commitment to staying modern and competitive while preserving fairness and accessibility.

Kind regards,

The B14 World Council