Italian swimmer Nicolò Martinenghi eyes 2026 European Championships in Paris

Olympic 100 m breaststroke champion Nicolò Martinenghi is returning from a six‑month shoulder lay‑off and has used the 2025 season as a low‑key recovery year. Coach Matteo Giunta says the Italian has regained his technical edge and is progressing steadily, positioning him as a strong contender for the men’s 100 m breaststroke at the 2026 European Championships in Paris.

Within Italy, Martinenghi will face a deep field that now includes world champion Simone Cerasuolo and veteran Ludovico Viberti, creating a highly competitive national race that should sharpen his form ahead of the continental meet. In a separate interview on the Italian Swimming Federation’s podcast, Martinenghi praised British breaststroke legend Adam Peaty for his respectful treatment of younger athletes, noting that Peaty’s humanity mattered more than his record‑breaking performances. He recalled Peaty’s congratulatory message after Martinenghi’s 59.03‑second victory in the 100 m breaststroke at the Paris 2024 Olympics, contrasting that attitude with what he sees as a lack of humility among many elite swimmers.