Greco-Roman wrestler of Moldova wins silver medal at 2026 European Senior Championships

Moldovan Greco-Roman wrestler Vitalie Eriomenco had won the silver medal at the 2026 European Senior Championships, held in the Albanian capital, Tirana.

The achievement of the 23-year-old athlete is all the more remarkable as he contested the grand final in extremely difficult physical conditions, having been diagnosed with a rib fracture. Despite the acute pain, Eriomenco chose to step onto the mat to honor the national flag, proving an unshakable character.

The road to the final produced one of the most spectacular moments of the tournament. In the semifinals, Vitalie Eriomenco pulled off a sensational comeback against Turkey’s Karem Kemal, a multiple European and world champion. Although he was trailing 0–5, our wrestler showed extraordinary mental strength, managing to turn the score around and win 6–5 against one of the favorites in the category.

The success in Tirana adds to an already impressive record for the young wrestler. Last year, Vitalie Eriomenco claimed the title of European vice-champion in the U-23 age category and managed to climb onto the third step of the podium (bronze medal) at both the World and European Championships for seniors.

At the same competition, wrestler Alexandrin Gutu also had a solid performance. He competed in the up to 77 kg weight category, where he reached the bronze-medal match. After an intense bout, Gutu finished fifth in the final standings, just one win away from the podium.

The competition in Albania brings together the best wrestlers of Europe and serves as a crucial test ahead of the next major international events.