Russian Gymnast Explains Why He Wore 'War Symbol' Next To Ukrainian Athlete

Ivan Kuliak, 20, finished third on the parallel bars at the World Cup event in Doha, Qatar, with Ukrainian star Illia Kovtun taking home the gold. 

During the medal presentation ceremony, Kuliak could be seen standing on the podium with a ‘Z’ clearly taped to his chest, having also worn the symbol during his routine. 

The symbol is extremely controversial as it has been seen painted onto Russian tanks and military vehicles during the invasion of Ukraine, which has been met with widespread condemnation from the international community. 

Speaking to the outlet earlier today (Tuesday 8 March), he said: “If there was a second chance and I had a choice whether to go out with the letter ‘Z’ on my chest or not, I would do the same. 

“I saw it on our military and looked at what this symbol means. It turned out to be ‘for victory’ and ‘for peace’. I just wanted to show my position. As an athlete, I will always fight for victory and play for peace.”

Russian athletes are currently not allowed to compete under their own flag or have the Russian anthem played.

The FIG also announced that, indefinitely from yesterday (Monday 7 March), no Russian or Belarusian gymnasts or officials will be allowed at international competitions.

After Kuliak’s message at the ceremony was spotted, Ukrainian gymnast Oleg Verniaiev shared an Instagram post expressing his rage.

He wrote: “Of course, you will excuse me, but let the Russians not shout that sport is out of politics!

“Congratulations to our guy [the Ukrainian winner], everything is in its place glory to Ukraine.”

Kuliak is not the first Russian athlete to publicly support Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine. 

At the weekend, two-time Olympic gold medallist Svetlana Khorkina also shared the ‘Z’ symbol online