‘Shocking behaviour’: Russian Gymnast Sports ‘Z’ Symbol Next To Ukrainian Winner On Podium
- IGF demands disciplinary action against Ivan Kuliak
- Letter symbolises support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak, who sported an insignia linked to the invasion of Ukraine on a medals’ podium, had been called out for his “shocking behaviour”.
Kuliak’s shirt had the letter “Z” prominently placed as he stood next to Ukraine’s Kovtun Illia, the gold medallist at a Gymnastics World Cup event in Doha.
Kuliak placed third for a bronze medal at the championship on Saturday.
The “Z” has been seen daubed on Russian tanks and vehicles in Ukraine and has come to symbolise support for the invasion.
“International Gymnastics Federation (IGF) confirms that it will ask the Gymnastics Ethics Foundation to open disciplinary proceedings against Kuliak following his ‘shocking behaviour’ at the Apparatus World Cup in Doha, Qatar,” a statement from the ruling body said.
Also, it had already been decided that from Monday, March 7, 2022, all Russian and Belarusian gymnasts will be banned from future competitions. – AFP
