PWA 2026

Following discussions within the PWA Management Board and consultation with the Race Committee, we would like to inform you of the approved Slalom rule updates for the 2026 season.

These adjustments are designed to reduce rider costs, simplify logistics, and maintain balanced and fair competition across both Foil and Fin disciplines.

1. Foil Slalom Equipment Limits (Foil-only events)

To reduce expenses and create a more level playing field, the following limits will apply at all foil-only Slalom events from January 1st, 2026:

Sails: Reduced to 3 sails

Foil set: Reduced to 1 mast, 2 front wings, 2 back wing & 2 fuselages

The maximum foil sail size will be reduced to 8.0 m²

A temporary tolerance of 0.5 m² for foil sails will apply in 2026 to allow brands and riders time to adapt to these changes

These limits are intended to simplify equipment management while keeping competition close and affordable.

2. Equipment Registration – Slalom X (Fin-only events)

To provide greater flexibility for riders and accommodate a wider range of wind conditions while maintaining cost efficiency, the following new limits will apply for Slalom X:

Sails: 4 fin sails per rider per year, with a maximum of 3 per event

Boards: 3 fin boards per rider per year, with a maximum of 2 per event

The maximum fin sail size will be set to 8.5 m²

This adjustment responds directly to sailors’ requests, offering ample choice and flexibility for fin-only events while keeping logistics under control.

With the additional board and sail, we are aiming to make fin racing possible from as low as 12–16 knots, particularly at lighter-wind venues.

This configuration will serve as a test model for 2026, and if successful, similar regulations may be extended to foil sails from 2027 onwards.

3. NEW Combined Foil & Fin Events (max. sail size remain same as Foil/Fin-only events)

At events where both Foil and Fin Slalom are run as part of a new combined format (separate racing, same event), the foil gear allowance will be further reduced to encourage efficiency and versatility:

Foil gear: Maximum of 2 sails + 1 board, + 1 Foil set consisting of 1 mast , 2 front wings, 1 back wing + 1 fuselage

Fin gear/event: Maximum of 3 sails + 2 boards

Total combined quiver: 2 foil sails + 3 fin sails + 1 foil board + 2 fin boards

Wind range transition guide: Racing will switch from Foil to Fin (Slalom X) between 15 - 17 knots.

4. Combined vs. Foil-Only Event Planning

For 2026, all European stand-alone racing events should aim to be combined Foil & Fin events wherever possible and viable, provided that the PWA has the financial capacity to support these formats if required.

Europe provides the ideal testing ground to refine this combined event model before expanding globally in 2027, thanks to its logistical accessibility and rider concentration.

5. Rankings and World Titles

For 2026, the PWA will maintain:

A separate ranking for Foil and Fin Slalom.

An overall (unofficial) combined world title & ranking will be introduced, recognising performance across both disciplines.

6. Future Developments

Looking ahead, the PWA is working toward:

Introducing lower-tier and regional events to strengthen the development pathway for new racers.

Enhancing collaboration with IFCA to create greater alignment across international Slalom formats.

Continuing to refine event formats and media delivery to make racing more engaging for fans and partners.

Additionally, the PWA will introduce a men’s weight-based ranking for analytical purposes:

Under 80 kg

Over 80 kg

This ranking will serve as an informational classification only; all race results, prize money, and official PWA points will remain based on the disciplines event results.

For women, the standard disciplines ranking will continue to apply without separate divisions.

7. Production Rules and Commercial Availability

Production rules remain unchanged.

However, if a product is proven to be unrivalled in performance, the brand must comment that the same quantity supplied to its riders is also made available for purchase for other competitors.

This ensures fair access to competitive equipment and transparency between manufacturers and riders.

8. Equipment Registration Deadlines

Brands: Equipment registration deadline remains December 15th, 2025.

All brands must submit their registered equipment lists by this date for approval ahead of the 2026 season.

Riders: Equipment registration will take place at the first event each rider competes in during the 2026 season.

We hope these updates and clarifications provide clear direction for all stakeholders as we continue to evolve professional Slalom racing.

These collective adjustments aim to make the sport more sustainable, balanced, and exciting for both competitors and fans.