The FIG issued a warning to a Russian athlete for showing disrespect toward the Ukrainian national anthem
The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) has reached a decision regarding Russian gymnast Sofia Ilteryakova following an incident at the Rhythmic Gymnastics World Cup stage in Bulgaria. The athlete has been issued a warning and may also face the loss of her neutral status.
This was reported by Glavkom, citing the organization’s press service.
On March 30, 2026, Sofia Ilteryakova did not turn toward the flags during the performance of the Ukrainian national anthem at the World Cup stage in Sofia (Bulgaria).
“In accordance with current rules and established procedures, a special committee was tasked with assessing the situation, as an athlete’s refusal to face the flags during the performance of the Ukrainian national anthem could objectively be perceived as incompatible with the standard of conduct expected of individual neutral athletes.
After considering all the circumstances, including the explanations provided by the athlete, the special committee decided to issue a warning to the athlete. Any similar violation of the rules governing the award ceremony or any other violation of the rules committed by the athlete will result in the revocation of her neutral status,” reads the statement from World Gymnastics.
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