Ivan Kuliak: Russian gymnast banned for a year for wearing pro-war emblems on podium next to Ukrainians
Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak was banned for a year for wearing the national war emblem on the podium at an event in Qatar in March.
Kuliak must now return his medal, but has the right to appeal within 21 days.
The letter Z became symbolic with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
It was painted on the sides of tanks and military vehicles, and was worn by pro-war politicians in Russia.
The incident was investigated by the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) and Kuliak was sanctioned by the disciplinary committee of the Gymnastics Ethics Foundation (GEF) for violating the FIG’s rules.
The 20-year-old player is not allowed to participate in any FIG-approved events or competitions organized by the affiliated FIG member federation for 12 months.
A statement has been added that: “If protective measures preventing Russian athletes from competing are still in place on May 17, 2023, the ban will continue and expire six months after the removal of said measures. above.”
Kuliak must also repay his winnings of 500 Swiss francs (£403) and contribute to the costs of the proceedings totaling 2,000 Swiss francs (£1,612).
Head of the Russian team, Valentina Rodionenko and coach Igor Kalabushkin, did not violate the rules of the FIG.
