Russia's champion in wrestling has changed citizenship: now he will compete for Kyrgyzstan

Change of sporting citizenship of Malik Shavayev

According to Главком: Malik Shavayev, a two-time champion of Russia in freestyle wrestling, has changed his sporting citizenship and will now compete for Kyrgyzstan. This step marks a new stage in the athlete's career, who won the titles of champion of Russia in 2021 and 2022. In 2024, Shavayev also won a silver medal, highlighting his high level of skill in wrestling.

In addition, Shavayev became the winner of the BRICS Games 2024, indicating his successful participation in international competitions. The change of sporting citizenship has become a topic of discussion, in particular, the president of the Russian Wrestling Federation, Mikhail Mamiyashvili, noted:

'Shavayev has changed his sporting citizenship. He will compete for Kyrgyzstan. We will receive compensation for him. This is not the leader of the team, it’s a normal practice. Is the compensation large? I would like more.' Mikhail Mamiyashvili

Neutral athletes and international competitions

It is also worth noting that against the backdrop of these events, on February 29, 2024, neutral skater Oleksandra Sayutina was present at the annual message of Russian President Vladimir Putin to the Federal Assembly. Sayutina is recognized as a neutral athlete by the International Skating Union (ISU), and her participation in events with Putin raised concerns, as this violates the recommendations of the International Olympic Committee regarding neutral athletes.

The change of sporting citizenship by Malik Shavayev may indicate a growing trend among Russian athletes to transition to other countries amid political and sports restrictions. This could affect the competitiveness of sports teams and the dynamics of international competitions. At the same time, Oleksandra Sayutina's participation in the event with the Russian president raises questions regarding compliance with the regulations governing the status of neutral athletes, which may have consequences for her career and the perception of neutral athletes in international competitions.