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On November 25, 2025, World Sailing approved a modification to the Offshore Special Regulations (OSR) to clarify the use of the storm jib, a sail that may seem insignificant on paper, but is crucial in strong winds. The impact is immediate, particularly for boats racing under IRC rules.
Restricted use for enhanced safety
The new OSR 4.27.1 strictly prohibits the hoisting of a storm jib at the same time as another headsail. This provision is intended to prevent certain practices observed in racing, where the storm jib, although designed as a safety sail, was used as a staysail or breeze sail.
This clarification reaffirms its main function: to ensure minimum propulsion in the event of storms (force 8 and above), on all points of sail. It is part of a preventive approach, as some boats are no longer able to use their stormjibs in extreme conditions due to hybrid configurations.
What impact does this have on the IRC gauge?
Under IRC rule 21.7.1, all headsails on board during a race must be declared, except for the OSR storm jib and the OSR heavy weather jib. But the new limitation imposes a stricter distinction between safety sails and racing sails.
In other words, a stormjib used for racing as an extra sail can no longer benefit from the exemption. It must therefore be declared as a full headsail in the IRC certificate. Even if its surface area remains modest.
Wing configurations to be reviewed
Owners should therefore check that their "inventory" complies with the rule. Combinations with staysail or jib in addition to the storm jib are now prohibited. Either sail with a declared staysail, or keep the storm jib exclusively for safety reasons.
Configurations with double forestay or longitudinal rail will have to be reconsidered to remain compliant. Boats relying on a storm jib to optimize their rating in breeze mode could lose the advantage if the sail is requalified.
A change in construction too
Another noteworthy point is that from January 2026, OSR tourmentins will no longer be able to incorporate battens. This provision is designed to guarantee greater flexibility and adaptability in difficult sea conditions. Sailmakers will therefore have to adapt their designs and review certain technical standards.
Materials remain restricted: no aramid or carbon fibers, but HMPE remains authorized. And the color must be bright (yellow, fluorescent orange...), to remain visible at sea.
For whom does this rule really change?
Offshore racing boats competing in the IRC, particularly those in offshore configuration with multiple breeze sails, are the most affected. On the other hand, ocean-going cruisers equipped with a stormjib stowed in the bottom of the trunk and used solely for safety do not have to change anything, apart from checking for the absence of battens and compliance with materials.
