German Extremswimmer Nathalie Pohl Tackles 220‑km Frankfurt‑to‑Cologne River Swim

German extreme swimmer Nathalie Pohl will attempt a 220‑kilometre open‑water swim from Frankfurt to Cologne, covering the Main and Rhine rivers over four days. The challenge, called “RIVERS: Frankfurt to Cologne,” begins at 6 a.m. on 11 August 2026 in Frankfurt and aims to finish at the German Sport & Olympic Museum in Cologne on 14 August.

Along the route, public stops are planned in Bingen (12 August) and Koblenz (13 August). The swim is also a charity effort, with donations and local events intended to fund swimming lessons for children. The attempt will be livestreamed by BILD.de, and about 15 support participants will accompany Pohl for sections of the course.

Pohl, who has set multiple world records, highlighted the difficulty of the distance, river currents, ship traffic and sleep deprivation. The project seeks to raise awareness for swimming education while showcasing a major endurance feat.