Swimming: Liebmann wins European Championship with world record

Johannes Liebmann has stunned the swimming world, claiming the European Championship title in the 1500m freestyle with a blistering world record time of 14:26.79. The 19-year-old's performance shattered the previous record, set by American Bobby Finke two years ago, by nearly four seconds. Liebmann, who also secured the 800m freestyle title earlier in the championship, demonstrated remarkable dominance in his first elite European Championship.

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It was an incredible race from Johannes. Such a time cannot be planned, but the direction after the European record over 800 meters was already clear. We expected a medal because of that.

His victory in the longest pool distance was a commanding one, as he and Hungary's Zalan Sarkany set a fast pace from the outset. Liebmann eventually pulled away, swimming towards gold and a sensational time with a significant lead. The crowd in the Centre Aquatique Olympique rose to their feet in the final laps, cheering him on.

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This is a very special race.

Liebmann's rapid development has been closely linked to national coach Bernd Berkhahn, who has previously guided Olympic champions Florian Wellbrock and Lukas Märtens. Liebmann moved to Magdeburg at age 16 to train under Berkhahn, joining other elite swimmers like Oliver Klemet, who also trains at the facility. Klemet, who won bronze in open water and gold with the mixed relay at this championship, secured the bronze medal in the 1500m freestyle, showcasing the strength of the Magdeburg training group.

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We all have to work now to catch up to him.