Rustam Minnikhanov meets Tatarstan athletes - participants of FINA World Aquatics Championships

On August 19, at Tatarstan Government House, Interim President of the Republic of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov met Tatarstan athletes - members of the Russian national team, who participated in the FINA World Championships in Aquatics in Kazan. Minister of Youth and Sports of Tatarstan Vladimir Leonov, athletes and coaches took part in the meeting.

At the beginning of the event, Lilia Nizamova, as well as her coach Ninel Kozhedub, received a commendation of Tatarstan President for a triple world champion in synchronized swimming.

Minnikhanov congratulated all the participants on success at the FINA World Championships and said that FINA President Julio Maglione called the event the best championship in the history of the International Swimming Federation. "We are pleased that the Russian delegation included representatives of Tatarstan. Russia ranked the third in the team standings. I believe that the leaders of federations, Russian Ministry of Sports, and we have learned our weaknesses and reserves,” he said. "The Russian team is far ahead of its rivals in synchronized swimming, and we should keep these positions. But, we should use every opportunity to catch up in other disciplines."

Speaking about water polo, Minnikhanov said that Kazan has its own traditions in this sport. "We should use this potential, especially of Volga Region Academy of Physical Culture and Sports," he continued.

He also paid attention to the fact that Kazan was well prepared for the championships and Kazan residents actively attended sporting events, including the Masters tournament.

"This is a serious achievement to become part of the national team. The Olympics will be held next year and representatives of Tatarstan need to participate. We have good expectations. But this requires hard and system training and, of course, potential. We should create all the conditions for athletes," Minnikhanov said.

"We are proud that there are athletes who can compete on a global level," he said.

Vladimir Leonov thanked Minnikhanov for his support and assistance at the world championship. He stressed that a large number of Tatarstan athletes were part of the Russian team.

Athletes and coaches also expressed their words of appreciation and suggestions during the meeting. In particular, establishment of a synchronized swimming center in Naberezhnye Chelny was discussed.