Search Operations Continue for Missing Russian Swimmer in Bosphorus Race

Turkish authorities have launched a large-scale search for Russian athlete Nikolai Svechnikov, who went missing during Istanbul’s annual cross-continental swimming competition on Sunday.

Svechnikov, a 30-year-old professional coach, was among the more than 2,800 swimmers from 81 countries who took part in the 6.5-kilometre race across the Bosphorus Strait, which links Asia and Europe.

According to the Turkish Olympic Committee, which organised the event, the athlete entered the water but failed to appear at the finishing point.

The Istanbul governor’s office confirmed late Monday that data from the electronic chip attached to his foot showed Svechnikov began the race but never exited at the end line.

“Security camera footage and the chip attached to the swimmer’s foot showed he began the race but did not get out at the finish line,” the statement read.

Immediately after the discovery, the coast guard, maritime police and other security units were mobilised to comb the strait.

“This information was immediately shared with the coast guard command, the maritime police department, and the Istanbul governor’s office, and search and rescue operations were … immediately initiated,” organisers said, stressing that the agencies remain in full coordination.

Russia’s consulate general in Istanbul acknowledged the case and said it is maintaining contact with Turkish officials while keeping the swimmer’s relatives informed of developments.

Race organisers explained that swimmers are typically allowed two hours to complete the course, after which patrol boats pick up those still in the water. Initial checks had suggested three athletes were unaccounted for, but the number was later confirmed to be one, Svechnikov.

By late Monday, investigators had yet to determine his whereabouts, prompting prosecutors in Istanbul to open a formal inquiry.

“We are working in full cooperation with the coast guard and police units to shed light on the incident,” the Olympic Committee said.

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