Moldova’s Vitalie Eriomenco shines at 2026 European Wrestling Championships
Moldovan Greco-Roman wrestler Vitalie Eriomenco won the silver medal at the 2026 European Wrestling Championships, held in the capital of Albania, Tirana.
The 23-year-old athlete’s performance is even more remarkable as he competed in the final while suffering from a rib fracture. Despite acute pain, Eriomenco stepped onto the mat to represent his country, showing strong determination, CE Report quotes MOLDPRES.
His path to the final included one of the most dramatic moments of the tournament. In the semifinals, Eriomenco staged a sensational comeback against Türkiye’s Karem Kemal, a multiple European and world champion. Although he was trailing 0–5, he showed extraordinary mental strength and turned the match around, winning 6–5.
This success in Tirana adds to an already impressive record for the young wrestler. Last year, Eriomenco became European U-23 vice-champion and also won bronze medals at both the World and European senior championships.
At the same competition, another Moldovan wrestler, Alexandrin Guțu, also had a solid performance. Competing in the 77 kg category, he reached the bronze medal match but ultimately finished in 5th place, just one win away from the podium.
The championship in Albania brings together Europe’s top wrestlers and serves as an important test ahead of major upcoming international competitions.
