Paris 2024 Olympic Sailing in Marseille, France on 29 July, 2024. (Photo by World Sailing / Sander van der Borch)
The iQFOiL class is the newest and most exciting discipline in competitive sailing, combining traditional windsurfing with cutting-edge hydrofoil technology. Unlike conventional boards that skim across the water, iQFOiL boards are fitted with a carbon hydrofoil fin that lifts the board above the surface once it gains speed, drastically reducing drag and allowing sailors to “fly” over the waves.
Introduced as the Olympic windsurfing class, iQFOiL delivers higher speeds, greater stability in light winds and thrilling visual appeal. Sailors can reach impressive speeds even in moderate breeze, making races more dynamic and tactical. This class is now a key feature in youth championships, including the India International Youth Sailing Championship in Chennai, helping young athletes transition into elite international competition.
What is the speed?
The iQFOiL class can reach top speeds of around 35–40 km/h, and in ideal wind conditions experienced sailors can briefly touch 45 km/h or more.
What makes it special is not just the top speed, but the way it achieves it — the hydrofoil lifts the board above the water surface, reducing drag dramatically. This allows iQFOiL boards to start “flying” even in relatively light winds of around 10–12 knots, giving them smooth, fast and visually spectacular motion compared to traditional windsurfing boards.
Follow BiGG Sports News for more sports stories
About the Author
1 thought on “Did You Know? What Is the iQFOiL Class in Sailing? – 35–40 km/h”