New laser question

Wondering if someone could sum up something for me with the whole new laser producer thing. I've been out of the space and am looking to get back into competing over in Europe. But now there are two types of lasers that are identical besides a sticker? Is this only if I want to compete at 'World' events? Trying to understand how a one design class now has two boats with two very different price points, it seems kinda counter one design if someone with a boat from the 90s isn't allowed to...

New laser question