site.btaWeightlifter Karlos Nasar Returns Home as European Champion with Two World Records

Weightlifting star Karlos Nasar has returned to Bulgaria after capturing the European Championship title in the 97 kg category held in Chișinău, Moldova. Nasar, who is an Olympic gold medalist, dominated the field and broke two world records — in the clean and jerk — each by one kilogram, finishing with a total lift of 417 kg.

Named Bulgaria’s Athlete of the Year for 2024, Nasar expressed joy over his achievement and ambition to keep competing at the highest level. “I hope my competitors stop hiding and show up at the next event. I don’t think anything can stop me,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of his team, whose support helps maintain his focus, fitness, and recovery. Although he suffered a shoulder injury, he remains optimistic: “The emotion was worth it. The European Championship is the first step toward the Olympic Games.”

Nasar also reflected on moving into a new weight class, as the 98 kg category is expected to become an Olympic division. He believes this will bring stronger competition, which he welcomes. “I didn’t expect [to break] the records because I hadn’t hit those numbers in training. But I felt good, I was healthy, and I took the risk.”