Uzbekistan Claims Historic Gold in Lightweight Double Sculls at World Rowing Championships

In a landmark achievement for Uzbekistani sports, rowers Shahzod Nurmatov and Sobir Safaroliyev have clinched Uzbekistan's first-ever senior World Rowing Championships medal. The duo triumphed in the men's lightweight double sculls at the 2026 championships held in Amsterdam, crossing the finish line with a commanding time of 6:21.93.

Their performance was dominant from the outset. Nurmatov and Safaroliyev established a significant lead early in the race, extending their advantage to approximately six seconds by the 1,500-meter mark. While Germany's crew, the reigning U23 world champions, mounted a late charge in the final quarter, Uzbekistan's rowers held firm to secure the victory.

The silver medal went to Germany's Naveen Alexander Shah and Maximilian Ruehling, who finished in 6:23.87. The United States' Jamie Copus and Sean Richardson claimed the bronze medal with a time of 6:27.45. India finished fourth, narrowly missing a podium spot, followed by the Netherlands and Brazil.

World Rowing noted that while Uzbekistan has seen success at youth and World Cup events previously, a medal at the senior World Championships had remained elusive until now. Nurmatov emphasized the historic significance of their win, stating, "This is the first medal for Uzbekistan... We dedicate this medal to the 35th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence. Because this is history, it’s the first time in history." He also credited their coach for significant support.

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This is the first medal for Uzbekistan. The competition was exciting and intense. We dedicate this medal to the 35th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence. Because this is history, it’s the first time in history. Our coach helped us a lot.