Applications have been open for 2026 IRC Rating since the beginning of January, and the IRC Rating Authority (RORC Rating Office and UNCL, Pôle Course du YCF) has already issued certificates to over 660 northern hemisphere boats for the new season following a strong start to the year’s applications. A further 670-plus southern hemisphere boats continue to enjoy competitive racing under IRC through to the end of May using their 2025 certificates.
IRC certificates are issued on application rather than renewed automatically, giving owners the opportunity to review and confirm their boat data, declare any changes to rated information, and submit any additional details required before a certificate is issued.
In 2026, IRC racing will bring sailors together through races and events around the world and reflect the full spectrum of the sport — supporting grassroots club racing while also delivering high-profile international competition. While it would be impossible to list every IRC race and regatta taking place globally, key international highlights for 2026 include the IRC European Championship in Poole, UK, in May; the return of the Sardinia Cup team event to Porto Cervo in June; and the IRC Middle East Championship in Dubai in December.
A number of rule and definition changes apply for 2026, as the IRC Technical Committee continues in its commitment to develop IRC while preserving consistency and a stable framework for all competitors. The IRC website includes the full rule text and details of rule changes: https://ircrating.org/irc-rule/. The 2026 IRC rule applies from 1st January 2026 except in countries with June-May validity where the rule will apply from 1st June 2026.
IRC certificate application is straightforward, particularly for those revalidating a recent valid certificate. Our local IRC Rule Authorities administer all applications, please see https://ircrating.org/irc-certificate/how-to-apply/.
(c) Paul Wyeth