KEY CHANGES in the SGP Series 13 Rules!
The rules for the 13th Series of the FAI Sailplane Grand Prix (SGP) have been released, bringing some significant updates designed to standardize the competition and raise the bar for qualification.
Whether you are a fan following the race, an aspiring finalist, or an event organizer, here is everything you need to know about the transition from Series 12 to Series 13.
1. Harder Qualification Thresholds
The road to the World Final has become steeper. To ensure that World Final slots are awarded from highly competitive events, the participation numbers required to qualify have increased:
Two Qualifiers: An event must now have 16 entries or more (previously 14) for the top two pilots to automatically qualify.
One Qualifier: An event needs 10 to 15 entries (previously 8 to 13) for the winner to qualify.
No Qualifier: Events with fewer than 10 entries (previously 8) will not yield a qualifying spot.
2. Stricter "Entry" Definitions
To prevent "ghost entries" from inflating participation numbers, Series 13 introduces strict definitions for what counts as a valid entry for qualification purposes. To be counted, a pilot must:
Start at least 50% of the races and complete at least half of those started.
Fly a glider that meets minimum handicap requirements (Daec Index 113+ for 18m, 107+ for 15m/Std).
3. Wing Loading Limits Updated
Series 13 rules are made to ensure that the newest generation of Gliders - often equipped with Electric Sustainers or Self-Launchers - can compete in our races. The maximum wingloading
18m Class: Limited to 51 kg/m².
15m/Standard Class: Limited to 48 kg/m².
4. The "Finish Altitude Band"
The finish line rules have been refined to prioritize safety while maintaining the excitement of a low finish. Series 13 formally defines a Finish Altitude Band (normally 30m deep).
In the Band: Flying below the upper limit of the band incurs a time penalty.
Below the Band: Flying below the lower limit of the band now invalidates the finish entirely.
Comparison: Series 12 applied penalties for crossing below the minimum altitude but did not explicitly define this "invalid" lower floor in the same way. You could still land on the runway and get a 5-min penalty with a valid finish.
5. Start Speed Flexibility
While the standard maximum start speed remains 170 km/h, the new rules allow the SGP Director to modify this limit at the daily briefing in exceptional circumstances, such as strong tailwinds. Series 12 listed this speed as a fixed value.
6. Summary Table: Series 12 vs. Series 13
| Feature | Series 12 | Series 13 |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Pilots Qualify | 14+ Entries | 16+ Entries |
| 1 Pilot Qualifies | 8 - 13 Entries | 10 - 15 Entries |
| Valid Entry Count | No specific definition | Must fly 50% of races; min. handicap |
| Wing Loading | 48kg/m² (18m class) | 51 kg/m² (18m class) |
| Start Speed | Fixed 170 km/h | 170 km/h (modifiable for wind) |
| Too Low at Finish | Penalty | Finish Invalidated |
Get the Full Details
Get your gliders ready, Series 13 is set to be the most competitive yet!
For a deep dive into every regulation, the complete rulebook is available for download on the SGP Sporting Rules page.
