Russian gymnast with ‘Z’ image on podium subsequent to Ukrainian faces lengthy ban
Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak, who sported an insignia linked to the invasion of Ukraine on a medals podium, had been referred to as out for his “surprising behaviour”.
Kuliak’s shirt had the letter “Z” prominently positioned as he stood subsequent to Ukraine’s Kovtun Illia, the gold medallist at a Gymnastics World Cup occasion in Doha.
The “Z”, a letter that doesn’t exist within the Cyrillic Russian alphabet, has been seen daubed on Russian tanks and automobiles in Ukraine and has come to symbolise assist for the invasion.
Kuliak, a former all-around and ground nationwide junior champion, had gained the bronze medal on Saturday.
“The Worldwide Gymnastics Federation (FIG) confirms that it’ll ask the Gymnastics Ethics Basis to open disciplinary proceedings towards Ivan Kuliak following his surprising behaviour on the Equipment World Cup in Doha, Qatar,” an announcement from the ruling physique mentioned.
It had already been determined that from Monday all Russian and Belarusian gymnasts might be banned from future competitions.
“The FIG adopted additional measures towards Russia and Belarus on 4 March,” FIG mentioned in an announcement. “From 7 March 2022, Russian and Belarusian athletes and officers, together with judges, are usually not allowed to participate in FIG competitions or FIG-sanctioned competitions.”
In taking its choice, the FIG mentioned it took in account the most recent suggestions from the IOC, the stance of its athletes’ fee and the “deep issues” and positions expressed by many nationwide gymnastics federations.
Russia’s invasion has been condemned all over the world, despatched greater than 1.5 million Ukrainians fleeing overseas, and triggered sweeping Western-led sanctions aimed toward crippling the Russian financial system. On Sunday eight civilians have been killed outdoors the capital Kyiv when Russian forces shelled a bridge as they have been making an attempt to flee to security.
