World Yacht Racing Forum
From November 20 to 22, Amsterdam became the epicentre of the global yacht racing community, as the Yacht Racing Forum 2024 brought together 289 delegates from 28 nationalities. Over three days of engaging conferences, presentations, and networking, the Forum provided a platform to address the sport’s biggest challenges, unveil innovations, and shape the future of yacht racing.
The Forum tackled key questions about the future of the sport: How can the yacht racing industry benefit from the latest developments in artificial intelligence? How can it continue to grow its visibility and appeal? What role will technological and environmental innovation play in shaping its evolution? Industry leaders, athletes, and innovators joined forces to share insights and propose solutions, reaffirming the vitality and diversity of the yacht racing world.
This year’s discussions reflected the sport’s evolving priorities:
Events and classes: The major events and classes in our sport (the Olympic Games, the America’s Cup, IMOCA) have been reviewed with a critical and forward-looking eye, while other events such as the Barcelona race, the Arkea Ultime Challenge and the Ocean Race explained the keys to their success or the challenges they face.
Youth, Gender Equity, and Inclusivity: Speakers emphasized the importance of broadening access to yacht racing, with inspiring case studies showcasing successful initiatives.
Sustainability: Presentations led partially by 11th Hour Racing outlined new strategies for reducing the environmental impact of racing events and yacht construction, proposing significant progress in sustainable practices.
Race Management: Leading specialists in the field presented the new technologies available to regatta organisers, including autonomous buoys and digital wind displays.
Insights from the Design & Technology Symposium: The Design & Technology Symposium, running parallel to the Forum, delved deep into the technical aspects of yacht racing.
Experts highlighted:
- Latest breakthroughs in composite materials
- Electronics and data analysis: can we trust the numbers?
- Powering performance and ensuring safety thanks to lithium batteries.
- Sustainability in Boats and Rigs Construction
- Latest research and developments in autopilots
- Latest developments and technologies in foiling
- Delegates explored how these innovations are reshaping the sport at all levels, from elite Competitions to amateur racing.
- Elite Competition and Broader Impacts
Discussions also cantered on the intersection of elite competition and mainstream sailing. Delegates explored how high-profile events like the America’s Cup, the Vendée Globe or SailGP inspire innovation and boost media coverage and participation across the sport.
The Yacht Racing Forum championed social and environmental change in the sport. Gender equity, sustainability, and innovation were central to many presentations, reinforcing the Forum’s role as a leader in advancing the industry. The 2024 edition concluded with optimism and determination, as delegates left Amsterdam energized by three days of collaboration and forward-thinking dialogue. The success of this year’s Forum is a testament to the industry’s resilience and its commitment to driving the sport forward.