Updated Melges 24 Class Rules Now in Effect

25 March 2025 - The International Melges 24 Class Association (IM24CA) is pleased to announce that World Sailing has approved a new set of Class Rule changes, effective immediately as of March 24, 2025.

These updates clarify and enhance several aspects of class participation, safety, and equipment usage. Here’s a summary of the key changes:

Professional Sailor Membership Requirements (B.2.2)

The rule now specifies that professional sailors—those being paid to race—must be associate members of their National Class Association (NCA) or the IM24CA, when required by the Notice of Race or their NCA. This corrects the previous wording that unintentionally affected a broader group of sailors.

Mandatory First Aid Kit Onboard (C.5.1)

A First Aid Kit is now officially listed as mandatory equipment onboard, addressing long-standing requests from teams and prioritizing crew safety.

Outhaul Safety Line Permitted (F.4.3 & H.2)

To increase safety, boats are now allowed to use an optional outhaul safety line on the mainsail. This helps prevent clew loss in the event of an outhaul failure and brings the rulebook in line with common practice.

Updated Placement Rules for Bow Stickers (H.3.7)

New specifications for sponsor and event sticker placement on the hull ensure compliance with World Sailing’s Advertising Code, while maintaining visibility of class-required markings.

All Melges 24 sailors and event organizers are encouraged to read the full rule change document to ensure compliance:

📄 Download the Rule Change Summary PDF

Complete Class Rules available on World Sailing website

For questions or clarifications, please contact your National Class Association or IM24CA Technical Committee.