Russia Suffers Defeat in European Archery Federation Elections

Congress of the European Archery Federation

According to Главком: On May 17, 2026, the Congress of the European Archery Federation convened in Antalya, Turkey, where Turkey's representative Hakan Shakiroglu was elected as the organization's new president. The election proved unsuccessful for three Russian candidates-Zorigto Mankhanov, Maria Larkina, and Albina Loginova-who failed to secure any positions within the Federation's governing and working bodies. All Russian representatives were eliminated in the second round of voting, garnering a maximum of 13 votes out of 36 possible.

Zorigto Mankhanov, president of the Russian Archery Federation, commented:

“Unfortunately, Russians did not enter the composition of the Federation's governing and working bodies.”

This congress marked a pivotal moment for the European archery community, as the former head of the organization, Mario Scarcella-who had led the Federation for 20 years-was granted the status of honorary president, recognizing his substantial contributions to the Federation's development.

Elimination of Georgy Kamalov

Separately, reports have emerged regarding the elimination of 46-year-old Russian occupier Georgy Kamalov. A former footballer, Kamalov played for the Vladivostok club 'Era' from 2003 to 2011 and later worked as a coach. He ended his playing career due to injury and transitioned into coaching within the 'Era' system. In recent years, he worked with the football club 'Anri', leading it to the level of the Russian Cup.

However, according to Dmitry Nizovtsev:

“He was up to his neck in debt. That's why he signed the contract. He paid it off after receiving the payout. But then he had to go off to war. And die.”

Russian propaganda outlets have not disclosed the date or details of Kamalov's elimination.

This event signals a shift in leadership within the European Archery Federation and may reflect broader political and social trends in Europe. The absence of Russian representatives in the Federation's leadership underscores the country's growing alienation and isolation on the international stage, particularly within sports organizations. Additionally, the elimination of Georgy Kamalov highlights the dangerous conditions faced by individuals drawn into the conflict and the tragic consequences that follow. These developments could significantly impact both the sporting landscape and the socio-political situation in the region going forward.

The recent developments in the European Archery Federation elections highlight a broader trend in sports organizations distancing themselves from Russian representatives. This situation mirrors the recent refusal of the European Handball Federation to comment on a match intertwined with propaganda events, emphasizing the ongoing challenges faced by Russian athletes and officials in international competitions.