This includes the mixed multihull Nacra 17 class which was added to the programme for the first time in London. 

Following this decision, the ISAF Council are seeking the most appropriate multihull for use at the ISAF Youth Worlds, a competition which traditionally prepares sailors for graduation to the senior ranks.

In particular, they are seeking a "modern, lightweight catamaran designed with spinnaker and daggerboards".

It has also been explained that the equipment represents a clear pathway to the Olympic Games, is cost effective, visually appealing and athletically challenging for competitors.

The equipment must be supplied to competitors, so the selected manufacturer will be required to supply and maintain at their cost the multihull equipment for the event each year.

Applications must be made by August 15, with more information available here.

The Youth Sailing World Championships are seen as a key way to prepare sailors for senior level ©Getty Images



Held annually ever since an inaugural edition in 1971, the Youth World Championships are the foremost event on the international calender, with many of the greatest names in the sport in recent decades having begun their success there. 

This includes Great Britain's four time Olympic gold medal winner Sir Ben Ainslie as well as his former rival, Robert Scheidt, Brazil's two time Olympic champion in the laser class. 

Scheidt won gold medals in both 1990 and 1991 while Sir Ben won the laser class at the 1995 edition in Hamilton, Bermuda. 

It is thought the new designs will be put into operation at the 2017 or 2018 editions of the World Championships.

The next event, however, gets underway later this month in the Portuguese resort of Tavira, with a week-long Championships from July 12 to 19. 

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