Race Officials Exchange Programme kicked off for 2026 season

On Saturday, 10 January 2026, the EUROSAF Race Officials Exchange Programme took place in Murcia, Spain, at the Eurosaf Sailing Academy – Centro de Tecnificación Deportiva Infanta Cristina (Los Alcázares). The event brought together race officials from different Member Authorities to exchange experience, best practices and strengthen European cooperation in sailing officiating.

More than 35 Member National Authorities are involved in the programme, representing a broad geographical spread across Northern, Southern, Central and Eastern Europe, as well as selected neighbouring and international partners.

The programme supports the exchange of several hundred race officials, including Judges, Umpires and Race Officers at both national and international levels. Particular emphasis is placed on:
– the development of young officials
– promoting gender balance
– supporting pathway progression towards international qualifications

The ROEP is a key strategic initiative for EUROSAF, designed to:
– harmonise officiating standards across Europe
– promote the exchange of knowledge and best practices
– strengthen cooperation between Member National Authorities
– support education, mentoring and the long-term development of race officials