The Yacht Racing Forum 2024 brought together 289 delegates from 28 nationalities with optimism and determination the overriding reaction.
Taking place in Amsterdam from November 20 to 22, the event featured conferences, presentations, and networking, and 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 including: ‘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?
This year’s discussions reflected the sport’s evolving priorities including the major events and classes in yacht racing such as the Olympic Games, the America’s Cup and IMOCA.
Youth, gender equity, and inclusivity were all discussed along with the importance of broadening access to yacht racing.
Sustainabiliy and race management were also discussed with new strategies put forward for reducing the environmental impact of racing events and yacht construction.
New technologies
And specialists in the field of race management presented the new technologies available to regatta organisers, including autonomous buoys and digital wind displays.
The Design & Technology Symposium ran parallel to the Forum, with highlights including the
latest breakthroughs in composite materials, electronics and data analysis and powering performance and ensuring safety thanks to lithium batteries.
In addition, sustainability in boats and rigs construction, the latest research and developments in autopilots and the latest developments and technologies in foiling were all discussed with explorations as to how these innovations are reshaping the sport at all levels.
“The Yacht Racing Forum championed social and environmental change in the sport,” said a spokesperson.
“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 energised 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.”
