Russian swimmer disappears after not reaching finish line in Cross-Continental Swimming Race

2025-08-26 07:25:06

(MENAFN) Russian swimmer Nikolay Svechnikov, 29, went missing after failing to complete the 37th Istanbul Cross-Continental Swimming Race, according to the Russian Consulate General on Monday.

The 6.5-kilometer race across the Istanbul Strait, organized by the Turkish National Olympic Committee, featured 2,820 athletes representing 81 countries. Svechnikov was among more than 400 participants competing in the swimming event.

After he did not reach the finish line in Kurucesme on Sunday, the Marine Police and Coast Guard immediately launched a search operation.

“Relatives of the citizen have been informed about the incident. Turkish emergency services are conducting search operations,” the consulate said in a statement.

Rescue efforts are concentrating on the Kanlica–Kurucesme route while also monitoring broader sections of the strait. The consulate added that it has submitted an official request to Turkish authorities and continues to coordinate with them for updates.

The Istanbul Cross-Continental Swimming Race, which spans the continents of Asia and Europe, has gained international recognition as an open-water competition, attracting both amateur and elite swimmers every year.

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