The final group of the European Qualifiers is now complete. SSL Team Bulgaria joins Group F, returning for its second SSL Gold Cup campaign with one clear goal to qualify for the next stage. Known as “The Lions,” the Bulgarian team believes that small nations can achieve big things. Raised on the waters of the Black Sea, the sailors bring determination, resilience, and strong racing instincts to one of sailing’s most demanding competitions.
Bulgaria has assembled one of the youngest squads in the European Qualifiers, combining talented rising stars with experienced international sailors. The team is led by captain Yoan Kolev, an Olympian who became one of Bulgaria’s top sailors after reaching Olympic level just ten years after taking up the sport. Today, he is an inspiration for the next generation of Bulgarian athletes. The team’s tactician, Lyuben Tenekedzhiev, has been one of Bulgaria’s most successful dinghy sailors for many years. His international experience and leadership will play a key role during the qualifiers.
Another important member of the squad is Boris Minkov, who recently achieved strong offshore results, including 2nd place in IRC1 at the 2025 Loro Piana Giraglia and a top-10 finish at the Aegean 600.
Bulgaria impressed during the first edition of the SSL Gold Cup and now returns with an exciting young team ready for another challenge. In Group F, the Lions will face Portugal and Turkey as they fight for a place in the next round.
