Extreme Weather Causes Cancellation of Open Water Cup Final Leg in Barcelona; Winners to be Declared ‘At A Later Stage’
The final leg of the European Aquatics Open Water Swimming Cup 2026 in Barcelona was cancelled mid-race because of heavy rain and strong winds leaving the race series with the men’s and women’s titles undecided.
According to the continental governing body, extreme weather conditions caused a power cut at Club Natacio Atletic-Barceloneta (CNAB) which led to the race being stopped after 2.5km.
The weather didn’t improve and the decision to cancel the race was taken by the chief referees and safety officials with the swimmers evacuated from the water.
The decision on the overall series awards will be made at a later date with Italian Dario Verani and Klaudia Tarasiewicz of Switzerland leading the way in their respective categories.
The cancellation came a week after Bettina Fabian and David Betlehem were DQd during the second leg in Razanac because of the misplacement of the sponsor company’s logo on their caps. It led to fierce public criticism of European Aquatics by the pair with the governing body issuing a statement of explanation.
Following the cancellation on Saturday, European Aquatics released a statement saying: “European Aquatics can confirm that the final leg of the European Aquatics Open Water Swimming Cup 2026 in Barcelona was cancelled mid-race on Saturday 3 October due to extreme weather conditions.
“Racing began as scheduled over the planned 10km course, but the conditions deteriorated and the competition had to be stopped after 2.5km due to heavy rain and strong winds, which caused a power cut at the venue.
“Despite the best efforts of European Aquatics and the local organisers to keep the race going, conditions did not improve enough for it to continue safely, and there was no possibility of restarting it.
“The decision to stop the race was taken by the chief referees and safety officials. The evacuation was conducted by the Marina emergency boats in a very quick and effective manner.
“The event was organised by Club Natacio Atletic-Barceloneta (CNAB), which has hosted 98 competitions over the years, including nine European Open Water Swimming Cups. This is the first time CNAB has been forced to cancel one due to weather conditions, and European Aquatics thanks the club for its work and professionalism in difficult circumstances.
“European Aquatics acknowledges the disappointment that this decision will cause, but maintains that it was the only option available given the severity of the weather conditions and the tight transportation schedule for athletes and volunteers. The athletes were understanding of the decision and agreed that the race could not continue.
“The decision on the overall series awards will be announced at a later stage, following internal discussions.
“Despite the disappointing news, European Aquatics is pleased to note that the Special Olympics 800m race, held earlier in the day, went smoothly, and congratulates all of the athletes who took part.”