Gorizia, Italy; May 19, 2010        
Three weeks ahead of the official launch of the Esimit Europa 2 sailing boat, which will compete in this year's largest European sailboat races under the flag of the European Union, it was revealed that its crew will include Vasilij Zbogar, one of the most successful Slovenian sailors. The two-time Olympic medalist and winner of the European Championship was named the Slovenian Athlete of the Year several times. He will work side by side with the Italian and British crew members and contribute to realizing this year's ambitious goals – to take an overall victory at the five most prestigious regattas in Europe.    

“When selecting the crew, we wanted to get the best sailors in the world, who have experience in competing at the larges races. Most of them have already competed as crew members of the most renowned teams in the America's Cup and have achieved some of the best results at the Olympic Games, as well as European and World championships,” said Igor Simčič, the Esimit Europa project manager. “I am honored that the Slovenian sailing champion Vasilij Zbogar has accepted our invitation. I believe that his knowledge and experience will make him a key crew member. He will become one of the twenty-five people who will carry the European Energy movement ideas of focusing on the activities that will improve the quality of life to the homes of all European citizens.  

"It is an honor to be a part of the team on the Esimit Europa 2 sailing boat. However, this is also a great responsibility. A large 30-meter boat will require concerted action on the part of its crew," explained Vasilij Zbogar. "This opens a new chapter in my career – the one where technology, team spirit, competitive vision and the project’s noble goals merge. After 25 years of competing in different racing classes, a time has come for a new challenge that will once again put Slovenia on the global map of sailing."