Russian gymnast Ivan Kulyak wore the letter “Z” on his uniform in apparent support for Russian troops at last week’s competition.
The 20-year-old from Kaluga, Russia, took home a bronze medal in the parallel bars exercise at the Instrumentation World Cup in Doha, Qatar – an event in which Ukrainian Ilya Kovtun took first place – and could be seen with the letter “Z” on his chest is on the podium.
Russian gymnast Ivan Kulyak has been criticized for wearing the letter Z on his uniform in support of the invasion of Ukraine. Claro Sport
As the Daily Mail wrote, the letter “Z” has become a way for Russian politicians, influencers and activists to show support for Vladimir Putin and the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
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Latin insignia were seen on tanks and other military equipment during the invasion, and ‘Z’ merchandise is sold through Russia Today, a Russian state-funded publication.
The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) said in a statement that it plans to punish Kulyak for the wardrobe change decision.
“The International Gymnastics Federation confirms that it will apply to the Gymnastics Ethics Foundation to initiate disciplinary proceedings against artistic gymnast Ivan Kulyak (Russia) following his shocking behavior at the World Apparatus Championships in Doha, Qatar,” the statement said.
Map of Russian attacks in Ukraine as of Monday, March 7, 2022
“FIG has taken additional measures against Russia and Belarus [earlier in March]. Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials, including referees, are not allowed to compete in FIG competitions or competitions sanctioned by the FIG.
It was determined that from Monday all Russian and Belarusian gymnasts would be suspended from the competition. Belarus has been a key foothold for Russian troops.