Joining Pachi will be fellow countryman Antonio Piris, one of Spain's most experienced top-level regatta sailors. 'Toño' or 'Talpi', as he is known in the word of sailing, has sailed twice around the world, four times across the Atlantic and has completed two Tours of Europe in regatta. Hailing from the northern Spanish region of Cantabria (as does Pachi), he has a long and successful track record in top-level regatta circuits, such as the Maxi Circuit, the Audi MedCup and four America's Cup campaigns. He not only has racing experience, but also technical knowhow and his experience in the field of boat building using the latest technology, as well as preparation of racing teams make him one of offshore sailing's most adept onboard technical experts.

The Spanish team will reach the starting line of the Barcelona World Race well-trained and well versed in their yacht's performance and capabilities. Pachi sailed her in the Istanbul Europa Race, in the Transat Jacques Vabre and following the incorporation of Toño, the pair sailed the yacht in the New York - Barcelona Transoceanic Sailing Record.