Body of Russian swimmer found months after vanishing during cross-continental race

January 22, 2026

TL;DR

The body of Russian swimmer Nikolai Svechnikov, missing since August 24, 2025, has been identified.
His remains were found near the Bebek embankment in Istanbul on January 20th.
DNA testing confirmed the body belonged to the 29-year-old professional swimming coach.
Svechnikov disappeared during the Bosphorus cross-continental swimming race, which involved over 2,800 participants.
Despite search efforts by the coastguard and police, his body was not found until now.
The Istanbul public prosecutor's office is investigating the incident, and the family is seeking accountability from the organizers.
Some participants criticized the race for insufficient monitoring and rescue boats.

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