Russian soldier recognized as a neutral athlete: how this became possible

The International Luge Federation named the Russian athlete a neutral competitor

The International Luge Federation (FIL) has recognized Matvey Perestorin, a private in the Russian army, as a neutral athlete. This was reported by 'Glavcom'.

After he had already served in the Russian army following the start of the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, receiving the rank of private and becoming a member of the CSKA military club, FIL allowed him to become a neutral athlete, granting him the opportunity to participate in the Olympic Games. The next Olympics is scheduled for 2026 and will take place in Italy from February 6 to 22.

Propaganda during sports events

Previously, Russian speed skater Alexandra Sayoutina also became a neutral athlete by the decision of the International Skating Union and participated in an event annually organized by Russian President Vladimir Putin for the Federal Assembly.

Another supporter of Putin, Russian skier Veronika Stepanova, posted a photo on Instagram about Sayoutina's participation in the propaganda event, which involved other associates of Putin as well as Russian servicemen, participants in the war against Ukraine.

On February 29, 2024, Sayoutina attended Putin's annual address to the Federal Assembly.

The participation of athletes in such propaganda events contradicts the recommendations of the International Olympic Committee regarding neutral athletes.

The approved neutral statuses of Russian athletes have become the subject of much debate and criticism from the international community.