Simona Quadarella: Unsung Star Chasing Latest European Titles
Underappreciated. That one word summarizes how Simona Quadarella departed last summer’s World Championships in Singapore.
A longtime staple for Italy on the international scene, Quadarella was superb in Southeast Asia. En route to capturing the silver medal in the 1500-meter freestyle, Quadarella established a European record of 15:31.79 to become the No. 2 performer in history. Additionally, she set a European record of 8:12.81 in the 800 freestyle, where she was the fourth-place finisher in an event that was one of the showcases of the meet.
Yet, Quadarella didn’t reap the recognition she deserved. She was overshadowed by several of the big names in the sport. In the 1500 freestyle, Katie Ledecky won gold with the sixth-fastest time in history, a 15:26.44 that was five seconds faster than Quadarella’s continental standard. As for the 800 freestyle, the Italian got lost in a race that saw Ledecky fend off Australian Lani Pallister, 8:05.62 to 8:05.98, with Canadian Summer McIntosh earning the bronze medal in 8:07.29.
If Quadarella’s performances from Singapore were not valued in the moment, time has allowed for positive reflection. Her effort in the 1500 freestyle is seven seconds faster than anyone not named Ledecky, and the 14th-quickest of all-time. As for the 800 freestyle, Quadarella is one of only five women to go sub-8:13. That accomplishment is significant, given Ariarne Titmus is the other member of the group.
Next week, Quadarella will return to international action when she competes at the European Championships in Paris. The regional championship is Quadarella’s target meet of 2026, which does not feature an all-encompassing global championship. It’s also a chance for the veteran to continue her string of excellence at Euros. On two occasions, 2018 and 2020, Quadarella claimed the distance triple, winning gold in the 400 freestyle, 800 freestyle and 1500 freestyle. At her last Euros, titles in the longer events were backed up by a silver medal in the 400 freestyle.
There is little question Quadarella is the favorite in the 1500 freestyle, as she went 15:46.19 during June’s Sette Colli Trophy in Rome. In the 800 freestyle, her top competition will be Germany’s Isabel Gose, whose personal best sits at 8:17.53. If Quadarella can secure gold medals in each event, she’ll become a rare four-time champion in multiple events.
A glance at Quadarella’s podium count from international competition reveals 32 appearances, including 17 titles. That is an impressive total, one likely to grow. And a ledger that merits a nod of appreciation.
