Málaga set to host 2023 World Sailing Annual Conference

The Spanish city of Málaga will host the 2023 World Sailing Annual Conference, bringing together delegates from around the world to help shape the future of the sport.  

Over 300 delegates, volunteers, committee members and the World Sailing Board and Council will convene from 13-18 November 2023 to review and discuss World Sailing’s strategy for the coming year and beyond, making and ratifying key decisions that will impact sailing at every level, from elite professionals to recreational sailors. 

Delegates include sailors, event organisers, Member National Authorities (MNAs), committee members, Class Associations, boat manufacturers, athletes and representatives from World Sailing’s partners. 

Decisions made during the week will impact every level of the sport, from elite competition to grassroots. In advance of the Conference, World Sailing received 189 submissions proposing changes to World Sailing’s regulations, policies and rules. Committees, MNAs, Class Associations and the Board of Directors were all eligible to propose the submissions in advance of the Annual Conference. 

World Sailing’s Council will meet on 15 and 18 of November to approve, reject or defer the recommendations and proposals from the Committees and will ratify proposals at the Annual General Meeting on 18 November, the final meeting of the Annual Conference. 

David Graham, CEO of World Sailing, said, “As we look ahead to a very important year for the sport of sailing, I am delighted to be able to welcome delegates to the wonderful city of Málaga for the 2023 World Sailing Annual Conference. 

“This is a great opportunity for the community to come together, share suggestions to improve the sport, reflect upon our successes and where we can improve, and speak openly about the opportunities and challenges facing the sport we all love. 

“With the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and the 37th America’s Cup on the horizon next year, the Youth Sailing World Championships still to come this year and events around the world showcasing the diversity of sailing, this year’s Annual Conference takes on extra significance and I look forward to a week of fruitful discussions with representatives from across the sport.” 

Further information on the conference, including the submissions, agendas and supporting papers, is available on the World Sailing website

World Sailing Awards 

The 2023 World Sailing Awards will be held on Tuesday 14 November. 

The Rolex World Sailor of the Year Awards – the ultimate recognition of excellence – will be the highlight of the evening. The World Sailing 11th Hour Racing Sustainability Award, Team of the Year and Boat of the Year will all be awarded. Boat of the Year, the Beppe Croce Trophy and the Presidents’ Development Award will also be presented. 

How to follow the Annual Conference 

Daily updates will be available on the World Sailing website

The World Sailing Annual Conference is supported by the Official Host Venue Partner, the Málaga Tourism Board.

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