Russian athletes are losing the opportunity to participate in international events
Georgy Zabolotnikov, the central blocker of the 'Belogorye' volleyball club and the Russian national team, expressed his sad disappointment regarding the absence of the Russian team at the World Championship in the Philippines, which took place in September. The FIVB decided to exclude Russia from participation in international tournaments in the spring of 2022.
“It is really very sad. But we have what we have. Everyone watched the World Championship and cried because there was no Russian team. And I also cried. I made some comparisons, but obviously, we would have been medalists there. I have no hope that the Russian team will be allowed in 2026,” Zabolotnikov said.
Reaction of Russian athletes to the participation ban
Alexander Syutina, a Russian speed skater recognized by the ISU as a neutral athlete, was present at dictator Vladimir Putin's annual address to the Federal Assembly. Along with other supporters of Putin, including Veronika Stepanova, Syutina participated in a propaganda event, violating the IOC's recommendations regarding the participation of neutral athletes in such events.
The ban on Russian athletes participating in international competitions has become an important aspect for the sports world. The events described in the news indicate deep changes in Ukrainian sports and its international community.