Self-preservation in action?

These have been challenging times for the ORC rating system due to an anomaly in their Velocity Prediction Program, which is the basis for which they seek to fairly handicap dissimilar boats. The focus of this hiccup has been the XR-41 (above, #26)), launched in 2025, that won the 2025 ORC World Championship.

What happened? Yacht designers have been looking for weak points in rules since the beginning of time, and the XR-41 found one. While ORC hurriedly seeks to fix their VPP for all boats in 2026, they did some math and issued the XR-41 with a 10 seconds per mile penalty.

For a rating system that prides itself on openness and measurement-based solutions, the ORC correction can feel like the kind of observed assessment more common in PHRF. Can ORC have it both ways? Are designers not supposed to do their job? Or is this self-preservation in action? The organization issued this statement on December 8, 2025:

ORC and X-Yachts are working closely together to address the technical questions raised regarding the XR-41 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.

A coordinated technical process is underway, including:

• Joint review of observed performance data.
• Additional CFD studies, with contributions from X-Yachts’ naval architect Tobias Merkel.
• Independent analysis by external experts, including KND.
• Systematic mapping of ANN-domain coverage to identify structural gaps in model behaviour.
• Evaluation of the current parameter limits and adjustment based on scientific evidence.

Both ORC and X-Yachts reaffirm a fundamental principle: the VPP must remain a scientific model — and science is not negotiable.

Any modification to the 2026 VPP must therefore be based on validated data and transparent methodology — not on isolated regatta outcomes or stakeholder interests.

We also jointly underline the importance of:

• A balanced and impartial ITC — supported by a commitment to strong governance standards that safeguard against conflicts of interest.
• Open communication and transparency in rule development.
• Ensuring that innovation within yacht design is evaluated through consistent and science-based methods.

This work is progressing with high priority. Once the ongoing analysis produces verified results, ORC will publish a full technical explanation of the background, findings, and implications for the 2026 VPP.

Following this, the results will be presented to the ORC Congress together with any recommended actions regarding the 2026 VPP. The ORC Congress is the body that approves any changes to the VPP.

ORC and X-Yachts remain committed to cooperation, scientific integrity, and ensuring fairness for all competitors.