Nikolova Secures Historic Silver Medal

The Varna arena erupted in cheers as Bulgarian rhythmic gymnast Stilyana Nikolova claimed the silver medal in the individual all-around at the European Championships. Nikolova finished with a total score of 118.750 points, securing her second consecutive podium finish at the continental level. This achievement follows her gold medal victory in Budapest in 2024 and a silver medal in Tallinn in 2025, cementing her status as one of Europe’s elite gymnasts.

Varna Mayor Blagoy Kocev personally presented the medal to Nikolova during the award ceremony. The event took place at the Palace of Culture and Sports, which was packed with enthusiastic spectators. For days, the venue had been the stage for some of the most thrilling moments in European rhythmic gymnastics, showcasing high-level athleticism and artistry.

A Tribute to a Legend

The ceremony featured a special emotional highlight: the celebration of legendary coach Neshka Robeva’s 80th birthday. After the medalists were honored, Robeva took the stage alongside Iliana Raeva, President of the Bulgarian Gymnastics Federation, Mayor Kocev, and Farid Gaibov, President of European Gymnastics. The crowd erupted in applause as they presented her with gifts and congratulations.

Robeva shared her deep connection to Varna, recalling her own competitive days. “It is an honor to be back at this Palace of Culture and Sports. In 1969, we held a competition here, and just like Stilyana today, I won a vice-championship title. The crowd chanted ‘Neshka makes no mistakes,’ and I truly didn’t. In 1987, we achieved one of our greatest successes here, winning all gold medals, thanks to the incredible support of the Varna audience,” Robeva said emotionally. “I always come to Varna with joy because I know people who love what I do are waiting for me. Thank you!”

Legacy and Future Inspiration

Mayor Blagoy Kocev praised Robeva’s enduring impact on the sport. “It is a true honor to congratulate you on your 80th birthday and welcome you back to the seaside capital—a city that is one of the most important historical and modern centers of Bulgarian and world rhythmic gymnastics, directly linked to your professional path. May your life example and undeniable successes inspire even more confidence and strength in Bulgarian gymnasts to show their best at this championship,” Kocev stated.

Iliana Raeva also delivered a heartfelt tribute. “There are many remarkable women who have left their golden mark in the history of our sport. But the name Neshka Robeva remains a symbol of the greatest successes and the rise of Bulgarian rhythmic gymnastics. Thank you for your immense dedication, uncompromising nature, professionalism, patriotism, and invaluable contribution to the development of Bulgarian and world rhythmic gymnastics. Thank you for paving the way for Bulgarian champions who today dignly continue your legacy,” Raeva said.