Honored master of sports of Ukraine in sambo, current world and European champion in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and MMA fighter Maxim Rindrovsky expressed a desire to obtain Russian citizenship. Known for his pro-Russian views, he left Ukraine after the start of the Russian invasion in 2022.
“Unfortunately, I cannot return home because there is a political junta now. And here I feel at home among my own. I am happy to be here. From the first days I arrived, I felt at home. And, of course, if there is an opportunity to become a citizen of Russia, I would be glad. In fact, I was apolitical, but, to my great regret, politics has affected me. I fell under repression in Ukraine. And, of course, to remain on the sidelines now, I think, is somewhat incorrect on my part because it is a betrayal of those people who are experiencing a similar situation as I am”
Earlier, the junior national team of Russia in rowing was unable to participate in the world championship in Lithuania due to the country's refusal to issue visas to Russians. President of the Russian Rowing Federation Alexey Svirin explained that this is related to the complicated situation and the impossibility of obtaining visas.
Maxim Rindrovsky expressed a desire to obtain Russian citizenship, explaining this by his pro-Russian views and negative attitude towards the political situation in Ukraine after the Russian invasion. At the same time, due to the complicated political context, even junior athletes feel the limitations and obstacles in participating in international competitions.