World Sailing statement 24 May 2022

Following on from the World Sailing Statement of Intent, published on the 18 April 2022, the Board put a vote to the eligible World Sailing Member National Authorities (MNAs) to change World Sailing’s articles of association by inserting a new article 104 and Schedule D, that if adopted, would allow the MNAs and Council (respectively) to temporarily suspend individuals from Council and other World Sailing bodies in extraordinary circumstances.

The MNAs agreed (on a 75% majority of votes cast) to change World Sailing’s articles of association and following on from that:

• The MNAs agreed (on a 75% majority of votes cast) there were extraordinary circumstances to temporarily suspend the relevant World Sailing’s Council member in accordance with Article 104 and Part 1 of Schedule D of the Articles of Association.
• Council agreed (on a 75% majority of votes cast) there were extraordinary circumstances to temporarily suspend the relevant World Sailing members of Committees, Commissions, working parties and other relevant bodies in accordance with Article 104 and Part 2 of Schedule D of the Articles of Association.

Therefore, with immediate effect, those individuals have been temporarily suspended and will not participate in relevant World Sailing events, activities or conferences until further notice. Under the new article, the Board shall review the situation every three months.

This matter has been carefully considered by the World Sailing Board over recent months with the best interests of sailing as its priority. Their direction to give this important decision to our Member National Authorities and Council ensured it was democratically made.

Clarification relating to participation of any boat owned or effectively controlled or managed by a Russian or Belarusian individual or entity

In addition to the World Sailing statement of 1 March (found here) World Sailing confirms this includes the suspension of the participation of any boat owned or effectively controlled or managed by a Russian or Belarusian individual or entity. Similarly, World Sailing’s guidance to our MNAs, Class Associations, affiliated bodies, and all event organisers is to implement the same measures.

Where this is not possible, for organisational, or legal reasons, World Sailing is advising event organisers do everything in their power to ensure that Russian or Belarusian athletes (be it as individuals or teams), officials or boats participate neutrally, without national symbols, colours, flags or anthems.

The World Sailing Board thanks all stakeholders for their cooperation and support during what is a very difficult time for many people in our sport around the world.