Season's Greetings from ORC

This article is the first in a short series where we will explain the thinking behind the different scoring options available in ORC. Written by Thomas Nilsson.

In mid-December, the Offshore Racing Congress (ORC) held its annual staff meeting in Naples, graciously hosted by Circolo del Remo e della Vela Italia (CRVI). Over three productive days, the ORC team gathered for technical meetings and in-depth discussions, setting the course for the 2026 season and the many ORC-supported events taking place around the world.

ORC and X-Yachts are working closely together to address the technical questions raised regarding the XR41 and the current parameter limits within the ORC VPP. Both parties share a common goal: to ensure a fair, accurate, and scientifically robust rating system for 2026 and beyond.

Today, at a well-attended meeting of the 56th Offshore Racing Congress (ORC), with 31 Congress members from 19 countries in attendance, several important features of this system were reported.