It was an atmospheric start to the FINA Swimming & Diving World Cup in Berlin. In the “Loft14” on the 14th floor of the Vienna House Andel’s Berlin, high above the lights of the German capital, FINA and the German Swimming Federation (DSV) had invited to the Media Night for the first time on Thursday evening.
“By bringing the world’s best swimmers and divers under one roof, we believe this new format offers additional value to the city of Berlin and sponsors, as well as to the athletes who can now unite around their passion for aquatic sport,” said FINA Executive Director Brent Nowicki.
DSV Vice President Wolfgang Rupieper thanked FINA and the sports metropolis of Berlin for their support in implementing this innovative format, and also the local organizing team and volunteers “for their tireless efforts, without which this event would not be possible.” In total, there are 13 Olympic champions*, 44 world champions* and more than 60 nations participating in Berlin
Athletes, media representatives and guests of honor then got to talk to each other in a relaxed atmosphere. “It was very nice to get together here once again in a convivial atmosphere before the competition and just to be able to communicate with each other,” said Olympic champion Florian Wellbrock. And the anticipation of the event could be felt everywhere. “I love the SSE in Berlin, I always look forward to swimming here,” said German swimmer Angelina Köhler. Anticipation was also great among the international stars. Nic Fink, reigning world champion over 50m breaststroke in both the long and short course, said, “I’ve been to so many cities in Europe and swam in almost all the major pools, but not here yet. Berlin has been missing from my bucket list. Everyone has been telling me what a great venue and what great fans are here, so I’m looking forward to the coming days,” explained the American.
