The Russian Consulate General in Istanbul has confirmed that DNA testing has identified the body found on Tuesday in the Bosphorus as that of Russian swimmer Nikolai Svechnikov.

Axar.az reports, citing TASS, “The Consulate General of Russia in Istanbul deeply regrets to report that, according to DNA results, the body discovered on January 20 near Besiktas along the Bebek embankment belongs to Russian swimmer N. A. Svechnikov. We trust that the competent authorities of Turkiye will determine the full circumstances and causes of this tragedy,” the statement said.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Nikolai,” it added.

The 29-year-old professional swimming coach had joined the 6.5-kilometer (4-mile) swim between Asia and Europe on August 24 alongside more than 2,800 participants from 81 countries.

But the Turkish Olympic Committee, which organized the event, later said he “went missing during the race."