Oman’s journey at the SSL Gold Cup 2023 in Gran Canaria, Spain, ended earlier than expected, as they did not reach their goal of advancing beyond the 1/32 Finals. Now, with valuable experience behind them and months of preparation, SSL Team Oman is ready for a new chance at glory in the upcoming Asian Qualifiers this December in Thailand.
Leading the team is Nasser Al Mashari, one of Oman’s most accomplished sailors. With victories in the Extreme Sailing Series, podiums in the Tour de France à la Voile, and consistent success across multiple high-performance classes, Al Mashari combines tactical sharpness with proven leadership. His goal is clear: to take Oman back onto the world stage of sailing.
“The team has been training intensively for the Gold Cup qualification in Thailand. We are focusing on coordination, endurance, and tactical sharpness. Our goal is not only to qualify but to represent Oman with pride and showcase the progress our sailing program has made. This is a huge opportunity — it puts Oman on the global sailing map and inspires the next generation of sailors.” – says Al Mashari.
Around the captain stands a crew shaped by international racing at the highest level. With backgrounds in offshore and inshore sailing, world records, and victories in events such as Sailing Arabia – The Tour. Their years of competing across classes like the Diam24, MOD70, Farr30, and J70 have forged a team that knows how to adapt quickly and thrive in demanding conditions.
Supporting the captain are seasoned sailors: Yasser Al Rahbi - winner of the Tour de France de la Voile, offshore sailor, Ali Al Balushi - champion of Sailing Arabia - The Tour with Team EFG Bank, Akram Al Wahaibi - versatile sailor across Hobie 16, Farr 30, Class 40, Diam 24, and Figaro 3, Raad Al Hadi - part of Oman Sail since 2010, with vast experience in Extreme 40, MOD70, Diam24, Hussain Al Jabri - gold medalist at the Singapore Laser Championships and winner of Sail the Gulf, Abdull Rahman Al Mashari - podium finisher in the 49er Asian Championships and successful Diam24 competitor in Europe, Haitham Al Wahaibi - sailing coach and competitor, with experience across Laser, SB20, Farr 30 and MOD70.
What also makes this team unique is its diversity. Oman is one of the few nations in the region fielding female sailors on the global stage. Athletes like Ibtisam Al Salmi and Marwa Al Khaifi are blazing a trail for women in the sport.
All eyes on Thailand
The Asian Qualifiers in December 2025 represent more than just a race for Oman, they are a chance to prove that the setbacks of the past have only made the team stronger. With experience, unity, and determination, the SSL Team Oman is ready to fight for their place in the SSL Gold Cup 2026.
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