Elizabeth Popova and Imogen Coslett gain European experience in Varna

Welsh rhythmic gymnastics talents Elizabeth Popova and Imogen Coslett represented Great Britain with pride at the 2026 Rhythmic Gymnastics European Championships, held in Varna, Bulgaria from 27–31 May.

The championships brought together Europe’s strongest senior and junior gymnasts for five days of high-level competition across individual and group events, with GBR fielding a promising young squad gaining vital international experience on the European stage.

Competing in the senior individual category, Elizabeth Popova delivered solid performances across her apparatus programme. She scored 19.500 in Ball and improved on her second routine in Clubs with 23.800. Her clubs performance was a particular highlight, demonstrating control and artistry against a deep field of Europe’s top rhythmic gymnasts.

Junior gymnast Imogen Coslett also impressed in her European Championships debut, competing in the ribbon apparatus. She achieved a 23rd place finish with a score of 21.300, marking a strong showing on one of the sport’s biggest stages. Her performance formed part of a wider junior programme aimed at developing athletes through exposure to major international competition.

The championships saw all GBR athletes gain valuable experience competing against Europe’s leading nations, with the event also acting as a key milestone in the international calendar and a qualifier pathway towards future global competitions.

For both Popova and Coslett, their performances in Varna reflect the continued development of British rhythmic gymnastics and the depth emerging within the national programme.