Russian gymnast investigated for wearing pro-war symbol on podium next to Ukrainian
The International Gymnastics Federation said it had opened disciplinary proceedings against Kuliak for his "shocking behaviour" at the Apparatus World Cup in Doha.
After earning bronze in the parallel bars final, Kuliak taped a letter 'Z' on to his chest and took to the podium next to gold medal winner Illia Kovtun of Ukraine. The letter Z has become symbolic with Russia's invasion of Ukraine and has been seen painted on the side of tanks and military vehicles, as well as being worn by pro-war politicians in Russia.
This weekend was the final opportunity for Russian and Belarusian gymnasts to compete after their countries were sanctioned by the FIG as a result of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. From Monday, Russian and Belarusian athletes, officials and judges will not be allowed to take part in FIG competitions or FIG-sanctioned competitions.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Russia-Ukraine war: what we know on day 11 of the Russian invasionUkrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy discusses more support with US leader Joe Biden as Russia’s attacks on Ukraine intensifyRussia-Ukraine war: live updates
Read more »
Russia-Ukraine war latest: Mariupol evacuation paused as Russian troops failing to observe ceasefire, Ukraine officials say – liveRussia’s defence ministry had said its forces would stop firing to allow humanitarian corridors out of Ukrainian cities of Mariupol and Volnovakha
Read more »
Russian athlete sparks outrage by wearing pro-war symbol during gymnasticsA Russian athlete has caused outrage after wearing a pro-war sign on his outfit while competing against a Ukrainian rival.
Read more »
‘Shocking behaviour’: Russian gymnast shows ‘Z’ symbol on podium next to Ukrainian winnerRussian gymnast Ivan Kuliak, who sported an insignia linked to the invasion of Ukraine on a medals podium, has been called out for his ‘shocking behaviour’
Read more »
Ukraine’s pro-Russian monasteries draw local suspicionWar has sharpened the split between Ukraine and Russia’s Orthodox churches, with some historic sites in Ukraine still loyal to Moscow
Read more »