2026 Annual General Meeting - Tanger Morocco

TANGIER, MOROCCO –June 25, 2026 – The International Optimist Dinghy Association (IODA) successfully concluded its 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday, 25 June 2026, in Tangier, Morocco.

The meeting opened with an address by the IODA President and the presentation of the official President’s Report, welcoming representatives, proxies, and observers from around the world to discuss the governance, development, and strategic roadmap of the Optimist Class.

Advancing Global Development and Innovation

The AGM featured comprehensive regional development updates from the Vice-Presidents for Europe, the Americas, and Africa, Asia & Oceania, highlighting continued growth in youth sailing participation and the ongoing efforts to support sailors, coaches, officials, and Member National Authorities worldwide.

Technology, modernization, and class governance were central topics throughout the committee reports.

The Technical Committee reported on important developments for the Class, including a milestone decision by the AGM to approve the new Standard Class Rules. The committee also presented an update on the implementation of Saildigital, the new digital platform designed to streamline the boat certification process, from production and measurement to global registration and event inspection.

The Regatta Committee highlighted the success of recent continental events and presented new documentation and future-focused technology aimed at expanding the development programme for race officials.

Delegates also received updates on key IODA projects, including ROPE, Optimus, Sustainability, and Media, reflecting the Association’s continued commitment to education, innovation, and responsible development.

Delegates actively reviewed proposals put forward by the Executive Committee, Technical Committee, and Member National Authorities, including updates regarding IODA’s alignment with the World Sailing Neutrality Policy.

Future Championship Venues Secured for 2027 and 2028

Following bid presentations and discussions, IODA confirmed future championship venues, ensuring long-term planning and stability for the Class.

2027 Continental and World Championships Confirmed Schedule:

World Championship: Lanzarote, Spain – 24 June to 4 July
European Championship: Weymouth, Great Britain – 21 to 28 August
European Team Racing Championship: Venice, Italy– July 21 - 26
South American Championship: Club Yates Higuerillas, Chile – 5 to 12 December
North American Championship: San Felipe, Mexico – 16 to 23 May

2028 Championship Hosts Selected:

The assembly voted on the bids presented by Member National Authorities and officially awarded the hosting rights for the 2028 IODA Championships as follows:

World Championship: Porto, Portugal
North American Championship: Nassau, Bahamas
African Championship: Hurghada, Egypt
Asian and Oceanian Championship: Jubail, Saudi Arabia
European Championship: Zadar, Croatia
European Team Racing Championship: Loosdrecht, Netherlands

Committee Elections and Governance

The 2026 AGM also marked important leadership transitions, with several two-year term positions up for election under the Class regulations.

On the Executive Committee, Sigrid Beckmann, Vice President for the Americas, and Ajay Narang, Vice President for Africa, Asia & Oceania, completed their terms and were re-elected for another two years term. 

On the Technical Committee, Jurgen Cluytmans completed his term and was relected for another two years term, while Curly Morris stepped down from his role after 24 years of outstanding service to the IODA Technical Committee. Alberto Pindozzi was elected to join the Techinal Committee.

During the AGM, IODA honoured Curly Morris in recognition of his exceptional dedication, commitment, and contribution to the Optimist Class over more than two decades. His work has played an important role in supporting the technical integrity, development, and international consistency of the Class, and IODA extends its deepest gratitude for his long-standing service.

On the Regatta Committee, Elena Papazoglou and Francisco Jauregui reached the end of their terms and stood eligible for re-election.

The IODA Executive Committee extends its warmest gratitude to all official representatives who attended the 2026 AGM in person, as well as to those who carried proxies for absent nations. The vibrant discussions, valuable feedback, and collaborative spirit demonstrated in Tangier continue to drive the success of the world’s largest youth racing class.

About the International Optimist Dinghy Association

The International Optimist Dinghy Association is responsible for the worldwide promotion and development of the Optimist Class, the leading youth sailing class in the world. Through its international events, development programmes, and strong global network of Member National Authorities, IODA continues to support young sailors and promote the values of fair competition, sportsmanship, and friendship through sailing.