Brazil and Italy capture medals at Milan Rhythmic Gymnastics World Cup

At the World Cup stage in Milan, the Brazilian rhythmic gymnastics team won the group gold and added a silver in the five‑balls final, finishing behind Spain and ahead of China. The squad posted a 28.050 score in qualifications and a 27.500 in the five‑balls final, with members Maria Eduarda Arakaki, Julia Kurunczi, Maria Paula Caminha, Mariana Gonçalves, Nicole Pírcio and Sofia Pereira.

Italian gymnasts also shone: Sofia Raffaeli took the hoop gold with a 29.650 score and placed fourth in the other apparatus finals, while Tara Dragas earned silver in the ball final with 28.600 points. Both athletes reached the all‑around podium, Raffaeli in second and Dragas in third.

Germany’s Darja Varfolomeev dominated the overall competition, winning the all‑around title with 119.400 points and also capturing gold in the ball and clubs finals. The event also saw podium finishes for Spain, China, Ukraine and Bulgaria, providing a preview of athletes to watch at the upcoming World Championships in Frankfurt.