The 2026 European Swimming Championships are set to take place in Paris, France, and the women's 200 breaststroke event promises to be a thrilling spectacle. With the world record holder, Evgeniia Chikunova, and the British record holder, Angharad Evans, both vying for the top spot, this race is shaping up to be a battle of speed and strategy. But who will emerge victorious? Let's dive into the analysis and explore the possibilities.
The Top Contenders
Evgeniia Chikunova (RUS): The world record holder in the 200 breaststroke, Chikunova is undoubtedly the favorite. At just 18 years old, she set the world record in 2023, shattering the previous record by nearly a second and a half. Her consistency and speed make her a force to be reckoned with. However, her recent performances outside of Russia have been slower, with a 2:19.96 seed time from the World Championships. If she can get back under 2:20, she will be a strong contender for the gold.
Angharad Evans (GBR): Evans, the British record holder, has been on a remarkable upward trajectory. She first broke the 2:20 barrier in April, setting a new British record of 2:19.70. Her performance at the Commonwealth Games, where she won by more than half a second, further solidifies her potential. While she struggled at the World Championships, finishing 5th, her speed and determination make her a serious threat to Chikunova.
The Contenders in the Mix
Tes Schouten (NED): Schouten, the only other swimmer under 2:20, has been on a roll this season. After missing the 2025 World Championships due to injury, she relocated to Belgium to train with Mark Faber. At the Dutch Trials, she swam her fastest time since 2024, earning the 3rd seed. Schouten's consistency and improved performance make her a dark horse in this race.
Mona McSharry (IRL): McSharry, an Irish swimmer, has also set a new lifetime best of 2:22.22. Her short break after the 2024 Olympic Games seems to have rejuvenated her form. With a strong showing at the Irish Open, she will likely qualify for the final and is hoping for a medal.
The Contenders in the 22s and 23s
Lisa Angolini (ITA): Angolini, an Italian swimmer, is on a clear upward trajectory. She set her lifetime best of 2:22.28 in April, taking a full second off her previous best. Her consistent improvement and potential for another massive swim make her a contender to watch.
Kotryna Teterevkova (LTU): Teterevkova, a Lithuanian swimmer, is the final swimmer under 2:23. Her seed time of 2:22.98 and lifetime best of 2:22.86 make her a strong competitor. Her season best of 2:23.92 further showcases her speed and determination.
The Contenders in the 23s
Alina Zmushka (BLR): Zmushka, a Belarusian swimmer, has been faster than her seed time. Her lifetime best of 2:23.30 and World Championships bronze medal make her a contender. Her speed and consistency will be key factors in her performance.
Ellie McCartney (IRL): McCartney, an Irish swimmer, has the fastest season best of the four swimmers in the 23s. Her time of 2:24.51 from the Saint Dennis Open showcases her speed and potential. While she may not be the favorite, her performance will be crucial.
The Dark Horse
Kay-Lyn Loehr (SUI): Loehr, an 18-year-old Swiss swimmer, is a dark horse in this race. Seeded 12th overall with a time of 2:26.22, she has improved significantly this season. Her lifetime best of 2:26.10 and pre-season best of 2:27.95 demonstrate her potential for a surprise performance. If she can maintain her form, she could end up in the final.
The Verdict
The women's 200 breaststroke at the 2026 European Championships is shaping up to be an exciting race. With Chikunova and Evans just tenths apart in their recent performances, the gold medal could go to either of them. However, Chikunova's world record and consistency give her the edge. Schouten, McSharry, and Angolini are also strong contenders, each with their own reasons to be optimistic. The race promises to be a thrilling spectacle, and only time will tell who will emerge as the champion.
