site.btaRhythmic Gymnastics Federation President Raeva: Nikolova Shines in Varna with Gold, Two Silvers

Stiliyana Nikolova delivered a standout performance at the European Championships in Varna, Bulgarian Rhythmic Gymnastics Federation President Iliana Raeva said on Sunday. Nikolova won one gold and two silver medals in a highly competitive field.

“Nikolova’s one gold and two silver medals on Sunday are a superb achievement in such a strong field. I even count one of the silvers as gold because she matched Darja Varfolomeev’s score. It was a truly excellent competition,” Raeva told Bulgarian media.

Raeva said she was pleased with Nikolova’s progress and consistency.

“I am very happy because Nikolova is showing remarkable growth as a gymnast. She is focused, controls her routines and stays in command. That gives me great satisfaction,” Raeva said.

Raeva also commented on Eva Brezalieva, who missed the medals in the finals.

“I feel sorry for Brezalieva because she works extremely hard and was very consistent in qualification. Unfortunately, her concentration and mindset slipped in the finals. I hope this will be a useful lesson for the future,” Raeva said.

Raeva said the upcoming World Championships would be even more important because they will serve as a qualifier for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

“It will be very tough, both in the individual and group events. The competition is extremely strong. We must not make mistakes. If we perform cleanly, nobody can beat us,” Raeva said.

Raeva said success would depend on overall physical, technical and psychological preparation.

“I hope we will be as well prepared as possible, in excellent condition, with the confidence and self-belief of great athletes, so that we can achieve our goals. In the group event, the inconsistency is mostly down to the psychological state of some gymnasts at a given moment, not a lack of preparation. They are very well prepared,” Raeva said.

Raeva said she was satisfied with the Bulgarian team’s overall performance.

“We have eight medals, four gold and four silver. There is no way I could be unhappy. Competition in rhythmic gymnastics is extremely strong now. Everyone is working hard and everyone is very good. That makes the sport even more valuable,” Raeva said.

Raeva also addressed the return of strong rivals Russia and Belarus to the international stage.

“The presence of Russia and Belarus made the competition even stronger. It did not change us. On the contrary, it is good for the sport,” Raeva said.

Raeva thanked the hosts and organizers.

“The organization was perfect. Thank you to Varna, Varna Municipality, the Palace of Culture and Sports, and all the companies and people who helped. The guests, judges and teams were delighted with the conditions. Organization like this deserves high praise,” Raeva said.