The Hyundai Archery World Cup Final 2026 reached its climax in Saltillo, delivering a dramatic weekend of international competition despite weather interruptions and tough losses for the host nation’s delegation, according to local reports.
World Cup Final Concludes in Saltillo
The final day of the Hyundai Archery World Cup Final 2026 unfolded in Saltillo, where three Mexican archers faced elimination in the bracket rounds despite strong performances, reported Milenio. The tournament brought elite archery talent to the capital of Coahuila, drawing crowds to the Plaza de Armas for the decisive matchups.
However, the bracket rounds tested even the most seasoned competitors as changing weather conditions and formidable international opponents shaped the final podiums.
Quarterfinal Exits for Local and National Stars
In the men’s recurve division, Saltillo native Matías Grande advanced to the quarterfinals before dropping his match to Turkey’s Mete Gazoz, according to Milenio. Gazoz capitalized on his momentum to secure the bronze medal for Turkey.
On the women’s side, Ana Paula Vázquez of Ramos Arizpe reached the quarterfinals before falling to Czech archer Marie Horackova. Fellow Mexican competitor Alejandra Valencia, representing Sonora, also advanced to the quarterfinals. Valencia finished fourth after a tight match against Horackova, followed by a 5-5 draw against Turkey’s Elif Gokkir that was ultimately decided by a single tiebreak arrow in Gokkir’s favor, Milenio noted.
International Champions Claim Medals
When the dust settled on the recurve finals, Marie Horackova captured the gold medal for the Czech Republic, while Germany’s Katharina Bauer took silver and Elif Gokkir claimed bronze, reported Milenio. In the men’s recurve category, India claimed the top spot on the podium as Dhiraj Bommadevara secured the gold medal. Japan’s Junya Nakanishi finished with silver, and Mete Gazoz earned bronze for Turkey.
Earlier in the event, organizers and attendees celebrated 2025 world champion Andrea Maya Becerra of Mexico. The event also faced a brief scare before the women’s matches when an approaching electrical storm threatened the venue. Fortunately, the storm bypassed the center of Saltillo, allowing officials to resume activities and successfully complete Sunday’s schedule.
A Warm Farewell in Coahuila
Crowds filled the stands throughout the weekend, bringing together local spectators and international fans to support the athletes. Following her elimination, Ana Paula Vázquez was greeted outside the competition venue by family and friends, whose supportive turnout visibly moved the young athlete, according to Milenio.
With the competition concluded and the streets of downtown Saltillo reopened after days of pedestrian-only access around the Plaza de Armas, the city successfully closed out its tenure as host of the global archery showcase.
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