The Greek national sailing team – SSL Team Greece – is preparing for the SSL Gold Cup 2026, a prestigious event that will once again determine the world’s best national sailing team. The Greek squad brings together Olympic veterans, world and European medalists, and seasoned offshore and fleet racing specialists.
While the SSL Gold Cup is not contested in Olympic classes, it’s the Olympic experience and international pedigree that could become Greece’s biggest asset on the world stage.
Emilios Papathanasiou – the captain with a vision
At the helm of the Greek squad stands Emilios Papathanasiou, a true icon of Hellenic sailing. A five-time Olympian, multiple world medalist, and European champion in the Finn and the Star class, Papathanasiou was one of the most recognized sailors worldwide throughout the 1990s and 2000s. But for Emilios, the most meaningful distinction remains the Fair Play Award, which he received in 2002 from the IOC International Olympic Committee.
His experience on the biggest stages, deep knowledge of the sport, and ability to unite talent into a cohesive team have made him the natural leader of SSL Team Greece. He hand-picked the squad for the 2026 campaign, blending elite athletes, versatile specialists, and up-and-coming talent. Under his leadership, Greece has not only high ambitions, but a real shot at making a global impact.
Afroditi Zegers – Olympic-class leadership
Leading the team on the water is Afroditi Zegers, a world-class sailor who achieved her greatest successes under the Dutch flag and now represents Greece. Zegers is a world champion, world silver medalist, multi-time European medalist, and finished fourth at the Rio 2016 Olympics in the 470 class. Her composure, experience, and tactical sharpness make her a cornerstone of the Greek lineup.
Legends and veterans
The squad is bolstered by legendary figures who have shaped Greek sailing for decades. Among them is one of the most iconic names in the sport – Anastasios Bountouris, a true sailing legend and a revered figure within the Greek sailing community. Now 70 years old, Bountouris is an Olympic bronze medalist in the Soling class (Moscow 1980) and a World Champion in the same class.
Respected not only in Greece but across the international sailing world, he holds the national record for Olympic appearances, having competed in six Olympic Games. With SSL Team Greece, he now plays a key leadership role, bringing unmatched experience and insight to help steer the team toward success in the Star Sailors League.
Alongside him is Dimitrios Deligiannis, another cornerstone of Greek sailing history. An Olympic competitor in Los Angeles 1984, where he finished 6th, Deligiannis is one of the most accomplished Greek sailors in offshore and big yacht racing. Like Bountouris, he is also a World Champion in the Soling class, further solidifying the team’s foundation of excellence and experience.
Full Team Squad
SSL Team Greece boasts an impressive lineup of accomplished sailors, each bringing a wealth of experience and success to the team.
Among them is Antonios Tsotras, an Olympian and European medalist in the Star class, who sailed alongside Emilios Papathanasiou. George Drougkas, a World Champion in the 1/2 Ton class, is well known for his expertise in offshore racing campaigns. Stylianos Noutsos, a Platu 25 World Champion in the mixed category, adds further strength to the team’s tactical versatility.
Also joining the squad is Antonios Bougiouris, a multiple-time Laser Radial and Laser Master World Champion, widely regarded for his technical mastery in single-handed sailing. Simos Kampouridis, a multiple Aegean Rally winner and ORC National Champion, brings deep experience in competitive offshore sailing. Panagiotis Douros, a long-time member of Simos’ crew, has consistently reached the podium at the ORC Greek Championships and Aegean Rally for over a decade. Georgios Karadimas, a Greek national medalist in the Star class, is known for his consistency and strong tactical decisions on the water.
SSL Team Greece is also investing in the next generation of talent. One of the rising stars is Chrysa Marinou, who finished 5th at the European Women’s 420 Championship in 2018. Her inclusion highlights the team’s long-term vision and commitment to developing the future of Greek sailing.
SSL Team Greece combines Olympic pedigree, championship titles, and a wide range of racing experience. With sailors from various disciplines – from solo dinghies to fleet races, offshore regattas, and tactical one-design formats – this diversity may prove to be their greatest strength.
Though Greece did not compete in the inaugural SSL Gold Cup, 2026 may mark their official arrival on the global sailing stage – with a team built not just to participate, but to win.
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