Brazil Makes History with Two Golds at 2026 Rhythmic Gymnastics World Championship

On August 16, 2026, Brazil achieved an unprecedented feat at the Rhythmic Gymnastics World Championship in Frankfurt, Germany, by winning two gold medals—the first ever for a team from the Americas in this competition.

The Brazilian rhythmic gymnastics team, consisting of Maria Eduarda Arakaki (also known as Duda Arakaki), Nicole Pircio, Sofia Madeira, Maria Paula Caminha, Mariane Gonçalves, and Julia Kurunczi, excelled under the guidance of coaches Camila Ferezin and Bruna Martins. They first clinched gold in the five balls final with a near-perfect routine set to the song "Feeling Good," earning 29.450 points, which was the highest score recorded worldwide in 2026 for that event. This score surpassed their own previous seasonal record of 29.250 points set at the Pan American Championship in Rio de Janeiro. Although they had stumbled earlier in the qualifications, placing eighth with a score of 26.800 points, their flawless final routine secured the top podium spot ahead of powerhouse teams. China, the reigning Olympic champions, finished with silver at 28.900 points, and Bulgaria took bronze with 28.400 points.

Following their five balls victory, the Brazilian team continued their dominant performance by winning gold in the mixed series event—which combined routines with three hoops and two clubs—also scoring 29.450 points to edge Spain (silver, 29.050 points) and Bulgaria (bronze, 28.750 points). Spain and Bulgaria rounded out the podium in both finals but could not surpass Brazil's commanding routines and scores.

Earlier during the competition, Brazil secured a bronze medal in the all-around team event with 55.500 points, which guaranteed Brazil's qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games in rhythmic gymnastics—a first for the nation in this Olympic discipline. The team's achievement follows an upward trajectory, including two silver medals earned at the 2025 World Championship hosted in Rio de Janeiro.

The success marked a milestone for Brazil and the Americas, heralding a new era of excellence and opportunity in rhythmic gymnastics. The coaches and athletes expressed deep emotion about their historic victory, with coach Camila Ferezin moved to tears at the prospect of hearing Brazil's national anthem played. Team captain Duda Arakaki emphasized the hard work, dedication, and pride behind their triumph.

With the championship having featured 42 national teams and over 100 gymnasts, Brazil’s dual-gold performance on the final day stands as a transformative moment, underscoring their position among the world’s rhythmic gymnastics elite as they look forward to the Paris Olympic cycle.