Sports
Outrage over Russian gymnast who competed with warmongering symbol at the World Cup
The International Gymnastics Federation opened a case against Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak, who wore a symbol in favor of his country's invasion of Ukraine on his chest when he stood on the podium
March 8, 2022 1:24pm
Updated: March 8, 2022 6:01pm
The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) was quick to take action at the Artistic Gymnastics World Cup being held in Doha, Qatar, when Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak stepped onto the podium on Sunday wearing a "Z" symbol on his chest. The athlete publicly showed that he was in favor of the war conflict caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. An act that has provoked the indignation of the entire sports world.
After receiving the bronze medal in the men's parallel bars final, Kuliak shared the podium with a Ukrainian gymnast, Illia Kovtun who took the gold, making his provocation was even greater.
The "Z" symbol can be found continuously on battle tanks and combat tanks and armored vehicles being used by Russian troops during the invasion.
Un atleta ruso subió al podio con un símbolo de la invasión a Ucrania, en la Copa del Mundo de gimnasia artística
— Apolitico 🇺🇦 (@ApoliticoX) March 6, 2022
El gimnasta ruso Ivan Kuliak terminó tercero en barras paralelas y apareció en el podio con una “Z”. A su lado, estaba el ganador: el ucraniano Illia Kovtun. pic.twitter.com/SXTRPFVNGs
"The International Gymnastics Federation confirms that it will ask the Gymnastics Ethics Foundation to open disciplinary proceedings against gymnast Ivan Kuliak after his surprising behavior at the World Cup in Doha, Qatar," the FIG said through an official statement.
"FIG adopted measures against Russia and Belarus. As of March 7, 2022, athletes and coaches from Russia and Belarus, including judges, will not be allowed to participate under their flag in FIG or FIG-affiliated competitions," he concluded.
