The national teams of Russia will return to the world water polo stage next year, after an almost 5-year absence.
But, during the period of sanctions, several excellent Russian male players have decided to represent other countries. Konstantin Kharkov has played for Croatia since 2022. Dmitri Kholod made his debut for Montenegro this year.
The latest update on nationality changes in water polo has come from Malta today.
Left-handed Ivan Nagaev, 32, who played for Russia from 2013 to 2021, has granted Maltese citizenship. He has joined the Maltese national team’s preparations and is in contention for a spot on the squad for the European Championships in Belgrade, scheduled for January 10-25. He will be a valuable addition to Malta. The administrative process to secure the Maltese passport for Nagaev began last year and has now been finalized.
Nagaev has played in the Maltese League for several years, wearing the caps of Valetta and Marsaxlokk. This summer, he moved from Valetta to Mladost Zagreb. Earlier, he played for Waspo 98 Hannover, Vasas and Jadran Herceg Novi.
Nagaev debuted for Russia at a major competition in 2013. He was a regular member of the national team until 2021, when Russia lost to Croatia after a penalty shootout in the bronze-medal match at the Olympic Qualification Tournament and failed to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics. Since then, the Russian men’s national team hasn’t played any official games.
Malta was drawn into Group A at the 2026 European Championships, along with Hungary, Montenegro, and France.
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