What a load of nonsense !

Several classes like the ORMA tris, open60 and even dinghies like the laser vortex and papertiger catamarans have solve the issue of lower spreader shrouds and rotating masts.

Also it is just nonsense to say that a 49-er is experiencing higher rig tensions then say a Inter 20 or tornado catamaran.

Those I-20's (F20's) overhere carry 1:10 mainsheet systems and 1:12 downhaul systems. Any idea what kind of loads that puts on the mast and mast foot.

Even Orange 2 has a rotating wingmast and its mainsheet (leech) tension is 22 tons !

I've sailed both 49-er and now F16's, these baots are very comparable in the way of sailarea and such. I can tell you from experience that my F16 experiences much high platform and rig loads then the 49-er. Beside the 49-er I sail only had 3:1 mainsheet.

Wouter