Muscat: The Omani team topped its group against elite national teams from across Asia, maintaining an unbeaten run throughout the competition. Oman Sail led the overall standings from start to finish, winning all decisive races to clinch a well-deserved qualification spot at one of the world’s strongest international sailing championships.

With this achievement, Oman Sail joins six other Asian nations already qualified for the 2026 Stars Sailing Cup, Japan, China, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and India, based on the championship’s official rankings.

The Omani squad at the qualifiers comprised Nasser Al Mashari, Hussain Al Jabri, Yasser Al Rahbi, Ali Al Balushi, Akram Al Wahaibi, Haitham Al Wahaibi, Raad Al Hadi and Abdulrahman Al Mashari, alongside female sailors Ibtisam Al Salmiya and Marwa Al Khaifiya.

Commenting on the achievement, Abdulaziz bin Salem Al-Sheedi, Acting Director General of Sailing at Oman Sail, said the qualification reflects sustained efforts by both sailors and technical staff. He noted that the result highlights the success of long-term investment in national talent and confirms Oman’s steady progress toward global sailing competition, expressing confidence in a strong showing in Brazil.

The Stars Cup Sailing Championship is regarded as one of the most prestigious national-team sailing events worldwide, bringing together 56 teams from different continents. All competitors race in identical SSL47 single-design boats, ensuring that performance is determined purely by skill, strategy and teamwork.