Shmulik Daniel Wins Bronze at European Para-Rowing Championships After Rival's Disqualification

Israeli para-rower Shmulik Daniel secured a bronze medal at the European Rowing Championships held in Italy on August 2, 2026. Initially finishing fourth in the men's single 2,000-meter event with a time of 9:35.55, Daniel was elevated to third place following the disqualification of Ukrainian rower Roman Polyansky, who had originally finished ahead of him. The gold medal went to Britain's Benjamin Pichard with a time of 9:07.88, while Italy's Giacomo Prini took silver at 9:15.44.

Daniel, who was injured during operational activity at Mount Dov in 2005, has represented Israel in multiple Paralympic Games. He placed sixth at Tokyo 2020 and narrowly missed a medal with a fourth-place finish at Paris 2024. Earlier on the same day, Israeli rowers Shahar Milfelder and Salah Shehin also won bronze in the double sculls event. All three athletes are coached by Dima Margolin.

This achievement adds to Israel's growing success in para-rowing on the European stage and highlights Daniel's continued resilience and competitive spirit in international sports.