Amidst Controversy, Boxing Star Vasiliy Lomachenko Backs Olympic Legend Serhiy Bubka

Lomachenko's Support and Bubka's Critics

According to Главком: Ukrainian boxing champion Vasiliy Lomachenko has publicly expressed his support for Serhiy Bubka, a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), who is facing criticism. The controversy stems from a decision by the International Masters Games Association (IMGA), which Bubka has led since 2022, to allow Russian national symbols at a major sporting event. Lomachenko posted a message in Russian on Facebook, stating his respect for the legendary athlete.

'With respect, Legend! Peace to all!' the boxer wrote in his post.

Serhiy Bubka is a celebrated Ukrainian pole vaulter, a six-time world champion, a 35-time world record holder, and an Olympic gold medalist. However, his leadership of IMGA has drawn sharp criticism. On February 26, 2026, Ukrainian parliamentarian Vladyslav Heraskevych called in the Verkhovna Rada for Bubka to be stripped of his 'Hero of Ukraine' title and for sanctions to be imposed against him. Heraskevych pointed to the negative consequences of IMGA's decision to permit Russian athletes to compete with national symbols at the World Masters Games held in Taiwan from May 17 to 30, 2025. The event saw participation from over 25,000 athletes representing 107 countries. This issue highlights the ongoing tensions in global sports regarding Russia's participation following its invasion of Ukraine.

Reactions Within the Sporting Community

This situation has sparked significant debate within the sports world. Lomachenko is known for previously commenting on events in Ukraine. Last year, he spoke out about a missile strike on a school in Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi, remarking:

'Today is a tragic day for all residents of Akkerman! Yesterday there were smiles and joy on the faces of people who came for graduation, and today there are tears and bitterness! The school I graduated from, which our children attended, was cynically shelled with rockets! Heavenly Kingdom to the deceased! Strength and health to the wounded to recover! Peace to all!' - Vasiliy Lomachenko.

Therefore, Lomachenko's backing of Bubka stands in contrast to the condemnation the latter is receiving, underscoring the complex divisions within Ukrainian sport and society. The controversy surrounding Bubka's decisions reflects the deep contradictions existing in the athletic community during the ongoing war. Lomachenko's support may indicate an attempt to maintain unity amidst divisions caused by political and social circumstances. These events emphasize how sport and politics are increasingly intertwined, creating tension in the relationships between athletes and the wider public.