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, world silver medalist, and European champion in the Finn class, Papathanasiou was one of the most recognized sailors worldwide throughout the 1990s and 2000s. 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 names who helped shape Greek sailing over decades: Dimitrios Deligiannis – Olympic sailor in Los Angeles 1984, finishing 6th, Anastasios Bountouris – Olympic bronze medalist in the Soling class, Moscow 1980, George Drougkas – World champion in the 1/2 ton class, known for his expertise in offshore campaigns, Stylianos Noutsos – European champion in the Star class and Platu 25 world champion, bringing strategic edge and experience.
The new wave of Greek sailing
Alongside legends, SSL Team Greece is powered by sailors who have made their mark on national and international racing circuits: Antonios Bougiouris – Five-time Laser World Champion, a technical master of single-handed sailing, Simos Kampouridis – Six-time Aegean Rally winner, two-time ORC National Champion, Panagiotis Douros – Regular podium finisher at ORC Greek Championships and the Aegean Rally for over a decade, Georgios Karadimas – Greek national runner-up in the Star class, a tactical and consistent performer.
Young talents
SSL Team Greece is also placing trust in the next generation of sailors, including Chrysa Marinou – 2024 Platu 25 mixed absolute World Champion and 5th at the European Women’s 420 Championship in 2018. Her inclusion is a clear signal of the team’s long-term vision and openness to developing Greece’s sailing future.
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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