Ángel Zubiría, a renowned Canarian coach, will take charge of the Spanish team at the prestigious 2026 Optimist European Championship. The competition is scheduled to be held in the Polish city of Gdynia next July. The Royal Canarian Sailing Federation announced this significant appointment.
This marks Zubiría's fourth time leading the national team in such a major championship. The Spanish squad will consist of eight sailors, notably including Lola Carrión from Lanzarote. Enrique Mena, coach of RCN Torrevieja, will serve as the team leader.
Zubiría's appointment signifies the return of the Canary Islands to the forefront of Optimist technical leadership in Spain after several years of absence, despite the consistent presence of Canarian sailors in elite teams.
“"They are all favorites in international regattas and the Excellence Cup, as well as top seeds from the most powerful regional federations. Our role is to ensure they arrive mentally as prepared as possible and adapt to the conditions we find in Gdynia, because technically they all have the capability to win the European championship."
“"It is a very enriching experience that, on one hand, challenges you, on the other, teaches you, but above all, it gives you the opportunity to share the excitement of athletes who have been fighting for a long time to reach this point."
Ángel Zubiría, born in Santa Cruz de Tenerife in 1980 and residing in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria since he was two years old, boasts an extensive career in sailing. He began as a sailor at the Real Club Náutico de Gran Canaria at the age of nine, later competing in the 420 and 470 classes. In 2000, he transitioned to coaching, earning his national technical certification in the Optimist class.
