Hellenic Olympic Committee President Isidoros Kouvelos met with pole vault champion Emmanouil Karalis just a few days after his silver medal at the World Athletics Indoor Championships Toruń 2026.

Mr. Kouvelos invited “Manolo,” who was accompanied by his coach and father Haris Karalis, in order to inform him of the decision by the HOC Executive Committee to reward him for his second-place finish in the first major competition of the year.

This HOC decision had initially been taken in the second half of last year and has been renewed for 2026, ensuring additional financial incentives for athletes who reach the podium at the two top international competitions, namely the World and European Championships.

“You have made us proud once again,” the HOC President told Karalis, adding: “Your achievements bring joy to all Greeks, but you also set an example for young people through your character and your bright smile. The goal of the Hellenic Olympic Committee is to support athletes who face difficulties, and that is why we have included 75 individuals in the ‘Adopt an Athlete on the Road to Los Angeles’ program. However, it is equally important to reward those who raise the Greek flag high at major international competitions. Thank you once again, Manolo. The HOC will always stand by your side.”

Emmanouil Karalis thanked the President of the Hellenic Olympic Committee for his support and invited him—as well as Secretary General Stefanos Chandakas, who was present at the meeting—to attend the upcoming Fly Athens jumping meeting, which he organizes.