Ukraine’s gymnastics federation takes legal action over unauthorized Russian participation at European Championships

European Gymnastics Assembly and Ukraine’s Stance

According to Главком: Iryna Deriugina, President of the Ukrainian Gymnastics Federation and head coach of Ukraine’s national rhythmic gymnastics team, announced a key upcoming event: the European Gymnastics Assembly, scheduled for the 29th. The agenda includes a discussion on allowing Russian athletes to compete. Deriugina stated that Russian gymnasts participated in the European Championships illegally, as their neutral status had been revoked.

'They should not have been allowed to compete at the European Championships at all. Their inclusion is some kind of European adventure,' Iryna Deriugina

Deriugina also confirmed that the Ukrainian Gymnastics Federation is prepared to take decisive action. 'We are likely the only federation working so actively on this issue. We have an excellent lawyer who has been collaborating with us for over 30 years,' she added. The federation is preparing lawsuits regarding the unauthorized admission of Russian athletes.

Developments in Ukraine and gymnasts’ plans

For context, on the night of June 14–15, Russian forces struck the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, damaging the Dormition Cathedral and causing a fire. Dozens of other heritage sites within the reserve were also affected.

Additionally, gymnast Taisiia Onofriichuk announced her intention to compete at the Rhythmic Gymnastics World Championships, set to take place from August 12 to 16, 2026, at the Festhalle Frankfurt in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. She noted: 'At the World Championships, I will perform the same routine I used at the recent European Championships.'

The European Gymnastics Assembly will be a pivotal moment in determining the future participation of Russian athletes in international competitions, especially amid growing controversy over their eligibility. The Ukrainian Gymnastics Federation’s actions, including its preparation of legal claims, underscore the country’s proactive stance in addressing this situation. This could significantly influence future decisions regarding the involvement of athletes from Russia in global events.

As the Ukrainian Gymnastics Federation prepares for the European Gymnastics Assembly, the ongoing debate about the participation of Russian athletes continues to escalate. This situation has prompted the federation to take strong measures, including blocking the approval of Russian competitors under their national flags. For a deeper understanding of the federation's stance and the implications of these decisions, read more about the recent developments regarding Russian athletes' participation.