Ivan Kuliak: Russian gymnast wears Z to back invasion as he appears alongside Ukrainian Kovtun Illia

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Ivan Kuliak: Russian gymnast wears Z to back invasion as he appears alongside Ukrainian Kovtun Illia

7:39 CAT | 07 Mar 2022

Image: Euronews

A Russian gymnast has been slammed after displaying a symbol of support for Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.

Ivan Kuliak had a Z on his top as he picked up a bronze medal at the Artistic Gymnastics World Cup in Doha next to Ukrainian Kovtun Illia, who won gold.

The symbol, which has been seen on Russian tanks, has become a signal of backing for the invasion.

“The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) confirms that it will ask the Gymnastics Ethics Foundation to open disciplinary proceedings against male artistic gymnast Ivan Kuliak (RUS) following his shocking behaviour at the Apparatus World Cup in Doha, Qatar,” FIG said in a statement.

FIG has already adopted measures against Russia and Belarus following the invasion. From 7 March, athletes from both countries will not be allowed to take part in FIG-organised events.

FIG adopts further measures against Russia and Belarus:
Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials, including judges, are not allowed to take part in FIG competitions or FIG-sanctioned competitions from 7 March until further notice.
Press release 👉 https://t.co/9RsEVEZ5YW pic.twitter.com/Cc9ZikMxZj

— FIG (@gymnastics) March 4, 2022

Last Monday, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) recommended banning Russians and Belarusians from sports competitions, breaking with a long tradition of non-intervention in political or geopolitical debates.

The International Gymnastics Federation has condemned Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak for wearing a “Z” on his chest in support of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

IOC Executive Board recommends no participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes and officialshttps://t.co/XZyLIi11XR

— IOC MEDIA (@iocmedia) February 28, 2022