The sport of sailing is governed by the International Sailing Federation (ISAF) and they devise the rules that competitors in the sport of sailing are expected to follow and enforce. A fundamental principle of sportsmanship is that when competitors break a rule they will promptly take a penalty, which may be to retire.

The Racing Rules of Sailing includes two main sections. The first contains rules that affect all competitors:

1. Fundamental Rules
2. When Boats Meet
3. Conduct of a Race
4. Other Requirements When Racing
5. Protests, Redress, Hearings, Misconduct and Appeals
6. Entry and Qualification
7. Race Organization

In addtion to these the The second part of the the rules ,Appendices A–P, provides details of rules, rules that apply to particular kinds of racing, and rules that affect only a small number of competitors or officials.

To download the complete The Racing Rules of Sailing click this link

To see online and play the RULES QUIZ click this link