European Cup: Exclusive recap with Andreea Verdes.

The 2026 European Cup in Baku brought together many of Europe’s leading rhythmic gymnasts for four days of senior and junior competition, featuring individual, group, and Cross Battle events. This competition was hosted in Baku, Azerbaijan, at the National Gymnastics Arena. 

In the cross battle, Daniela Munits took the gold, Taisiia Onofriichuk took silver, a

nd Sofia Raffaeli finished in third. To view the full results, click here

Following the European Cup in Baku, Andreea Verdes, of Romania, who finished 9th in the all-around with a score of 106.350, reflected on her experience of the competition, kindly agreeing to answer some questions about her experience. 

How was the atmosphere and venue like? 

I have been participating in competitions organized in Baku since 2014, when I was still a junior. Now, almost every year as a senior, I compete either at the World Cup or the European Cup, sometimes even both in the same year. I honestly think every country would wish to have the conditions that

Baku offers.

The arena is every gymnast’s dream: a venue dedicated entirely to gymnastics. I return to Baku every year with great pleasure. We are always welcomed by warm people, and the organization is consistently at the highest level. As for the atmosphere, every competition, regardless of the location, feels a bit stressful for me because of the emotions involved. But overall, the people, the vibe of the competition, and the arena itself really boosted my confidence.”

How was the crowd's energy? 

We did not have a very large audience during qualifications, but in the Cross Battle final, I felt much more support from the crowd. Of course, the atmosphere was very positive. I felt every encouragement, regardless of success or mistakes.

How was the experience backstage and in the warm-up area?

There were many participants in the individual and group competitions. The arena is large enough to allow several gymnasts to warm up at the same time. Even though the space is more than sufficient, the noise can sometimes make me feel a bit overwhelmed. I am used to my small training hall back home, where we only have two carpets and a lot of silence. At the same time, I once again had the opportunity to meet the other gymnasts, communicate with them, and watch the competition live on television together. We laughed together, applauded the finalists’ routines, and supported one another regardless of the results.

What was your favorite moment from the event?

My favorite moment was during the Cross Battle final, when I managed to perform a very good hoop routine. Before stepping onto the carpet, I did not feel completely comfortable. I was carrying a lot of fatigue and emotions, and I honestly did not believe it would go as well as I wanted. But at the end of the routine, I was truly happy that I managed to deliver such a strong performance.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-ETopihVPg

What was the most memorable moment for you?

Performing a very strong club routine was the most memorable moment for me. This apparatus has caused me some difficulties this year, so the fact that I managed to perform it almost perfectly here in Baku meant a lot to me. I walked off the carpet and started crying from happiness because I truly did not expect to be able to finish it in such a good way.

What’s something you think viewers at home don’t realize about this event?

Many people watching the competition from home do not really know what happens behind the scenes, in the warm-up area, or before performances. Television cannot fully show how much effort and hard work go into creating a perfect routine. People also do not realize how long the Cross Battle final lasts, how the qualification system works, or what achieving such a result actually involves. 

What was the energy like backstage before athletes went onto the carpet?

I believe every competition is based on mutual support. We are all aware that we are not truly fighting against each other; we are trying to surpass ourselves, to become better than we were yesterday, and to achieve higher scores from one competition to another.

The Cross Battles are very different from a traditional competition. Do you like this sort of format?

This format is definitely very different. I believe it is something very interesting for the fans and the audience, and for us gymnasts, it is a completely different experience. Yes, I really like this format.

What do you think the Cross Battles format adds to rhythmic gymnastics for both athletes and spectators?

 It adds excitement and, in a way, brings more color and suspense to the sport. It is truly very interesting to watch because you never really know who will win. Most of the time, you predict one result, and then you realize that things turned out completely differently.

Was the atmosphere during the Cross Battles different compared to regular competitions?

Yes, the atmosphere is different. The way the finalists are presented after each stage, and the fact that we gymnasts meet on the couch while waiting for the scores, make everything feel different compared to qualifications or traditional competitions. It feels more like a very interesting show.

If you could describe the competition in one word, what would it be?

Special.