Objective To investigate the epidemiology of injuries in the iQFOiL Olympic windsurfing class, focusing on risk factors such as gender, training volume, injury prevention measures, and equipment during the 2021 iQFOiL European Championships. Methods A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 165 competitors (59 women, 106 men) at the 2021 iQFOiL European Championships. Participants were interviewed using a researcher-assisted electronic injury questionnaire developed by the Polish Yachting Association and the Medical Commission of World Sailing. The focus was on the three most serious injuries reported by participants during the previous 12 months. Results 85 iQFOiL competitors reported 117 injuries with an injury prevalence of 52% (95% CI 44-59%). The prevalence was higher in women (61%, 95% CI 48-72%) than men (46%, 95% CI 37-56%) (p = 0.068). The incidence rate was 1.61 injuries per 1,000 h of sailing (women - 1.92 injuries/1000 h, men - 0.92 injuries/1000 h). 83% (95% CI 75-89%) of injuries occurred during on-water training. Acute injuries were more common (60%, 95% CI 51-68%) than chronic injuries. Muscle cramps/spasm (28%, 95% CI 21-37%) occurring in the lower back/lumbar spine (26%, 95% CI 19-35%) were the most common injury. Conclusion The new Olympic windsurfing class iQFOiL has a higher prevalence (women: 61%, men 46%) of injuries than its predecessor, the RS: X class (women: 39%, men: 23%)8. Significance What is already known on this topic? • The epidemiology of injuries in the previous Olympic windsurfing class (RS: X) has been documented. However, that for the new iQFOiL class has yet to be reported, particularly among elite sailors. What are the findings? • The iQFOiL Olympic windsurfing class exhibits a higher injury prevalence compared to its predecessor, the RS: X class (women: 61% vs. 39%; men: 46% vs. 23%). Most of injuries (83%) occurred during on-water team training. How might it impact on clinical practice in the future? • Understanding the injury patterns in iQFOiL could inform the development of injury prevention strategies, injury treatment and return-to-play protocols, and training regimens. • By identifying high-risk situations, sailors and coaches can take preventive actions during training and competition, potentially reducing injury rates.
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