ISAF becomes World Sailing as part of rebrand

"We have great history and tradition and of this we are justifiably proud. However, in some areas, we were stuck in the past."

World Sailing, formerly known as the International Sailing Federation (ISAF), has officially announced its rebrand, which comes along with a new name and logo for its federation. Para World Sailing is responsible for Paralympic sailing. More transparency, better communication, stronger governance and greater accountability are the four main aims of the new leadership team and the rebrand.

“Sailing is one of the most inclusive sports in the world, regardless of gender, age or ability of a sailor, there is a boat for anyone and everyone to train and race in,” World Sailing said in a press release. “It's not unusual to see men and women racing alongside and against each other, grandparents sharing a boat with their grandchildren, or able-bodied and disabled sailors going head-to-head - all can compete on equal terms and this is what makes the sport unique.”

A new motto - 'A Sport for Life' – will go along with the federation’s refreshed look and focus. The motto reinforces the team's dedication to the whole world of sailing, from an individual's first step in a boat to the day they choose to hang up their salopettes.

Malcolm Page, Chief Marketing Officer of World Sailing, said, "We are really looking forward to a new era of sailing governance and myself and the team are determined to make World Sailing the best that it can be.

"It feels natural to develop our brand as the organisation evolves. The new identity satisfies all of the existing positive expectations of what our previous mark stood for, whilst moving the brand forward to acknowledge the maturity, functionality and diversity of sailing.

"We have great history and tradition and of this we are justifiably proud. However, in some areas, we were stuck in the past. Only by thinking and acting together, acting now, sharing one clear powerful message, can we move beyond this, remain relevant and grow as a sport."

The future of the World Sailing will see a united sport from juniors venturing onto the water for the first time to champions competing at the Olympic Games or in the Vendée Globe. Greater value will be provided to Member National Authorities, Class Associations and Continental Federations, alongside an initiative developed to grow and broaden participation in sailing.