A new edition of the Racing Rules of Sailing is published every four years, and while there were close to a hundred changes in the RRS 2021-24, the revision is less for the upcoming 2025-28 edition. To assist with this transition is Captain Tribhuwan Jaiswal, IJ from Mumbai, India:

Starting with the Definitions, like the new definition of Sail the Course and definition of Mark-Room, is very simple and effective. New definitions like Committee and Continuing Obstructions have been added for the benefit of the sailors. The Basic Principles are excluded from the list of Rules, however, prohibited from any change.

A lot of changes result in making the RRS more comprehensive and would facilitate better conduct of events like NOR must be published in writing or some of the rules that cannot be amended by NOR/SI or RRS 44.3 now requires the NOR/SI to explicitly allow Scoring Penalties. RRS 56.3 is new and requires that, if used, AIS and like devices are not turned off. This reflects the need for safety equipment to be used appropriately.

The aspect of what is the change and its impact on the rule position is of interest to all of us – the sailors, coaches, and the race officials. To assist, I have sought to compile a comparison of the changes that have been brought about in the RRS 2025-28 as well as discuss the impact on the current rule position. To view this document, click here.