In just a few days, Baku will once again become the center of attention in the world of gymnastics. From April 18 to 20, the capital will host the Rhythmic Gymnastics World Cup, where representatives of this graceful sport from various countries will compete for top honors.

Among the participants of this World Cup are gymnasts who have already made a name for themselves on the world stage. Alongside them, members of our national team are ready to shine with their performances in front of a home crowd.

In the group exercises category, strong teams from China, Italy, Bulgaria and Israel will participate. These teams have already proven themselves at world, continental and Olympic competitions.

Notably, the Chinese team won the Gold medal at the Olympic Games held in Paris. Israel’s representatives claimed the Silver medal in the French capital. Despite some changes in the squad, Israel’s national team is still regarded as one of the top favorites. The same can be said for the teams of Italy and Bulgaria, both of which still feature athletes who will compete in the Paris 2024 Olympics.

There are also many well-known names among the individual participants. One of them is Daria Varfolomeev from Germany the Olympic champion in Paris. In addition to her Olympic title, she is a six-time World Champion and two-time European Champion. Notably, one of her European Championship victories took place right here in Baku.

We will also see Alina Harnasko (AIN), Bronze medalist of the Tokyo Olympics and multiple-time World Championship medalist, compete in Baku.

Among other participants is Stiliana Nikolova from Bulgaria, who has won titles at both the World and European Championships. Last year, at the European Cup held in Baku, she won two Gold medals.

Wang Zilu from China, a two-time World Cup winner, will also participate. Vera Tugolukova from Cyprus has repeatedly placed on the podium at both World and European Cups. She won one Silver and two Bronze medals at last year’s European Cup in Baku.

From Italy, Sofia Raffaeli, a Bronze medalist of the Paris Olympics and five-time medalist at World and European Championships, will take part in the competition.

Mirano Kita, a two-time Bronze medalist at the Asian Championships, will represent Japan. Also performing will be Brianna Labadan from the Philippines, a Bronze medalist at the Southeast Asian Games.

Taisiia Onofriichuk from Ukraine, who won a Bronze medal in the Hoop exrcise at last year’s European Championship in Budapest, has already placed on the podium at 11 World Cups, and will look to add more to her tally.

In short, a great competition lies ahead. Regardless of the results, one thing is certain in this magnificent and delicate sport, the ultimate winners will be beauty and grace.