‘Close Your Eyes And Ears’ – Ukraine Protests Russia’s Return To Gymnastics

BusinessSportsMoney‘Close Your Eyes And Ears’ — Ukraine Protests Russia’s Return To GymnasticsByCaroline Price,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Olympic Sports Analyst and Published AuthorFollow AuthorMay 29, 2026, 04:06pm EDTMay 29, 2026, 04:07pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.29 July 2024, France, Paris: Olympics, Paris 2024, gymnastics, all-around, team, men, final, pommel horse, Oleg Verniayev from Ukraine. Photo: Marijan Murat/dpa (Photo by Marijan Murat/picture alliance via Getty Images)dpa/picture alliance via Getty ImagesThe Ukrainian Gymnastics Federation (UGF) is calling on the international sports community for support. After Ukrainian rhythmic gymnasts Sofiia Krainska and Varvara Chubarova protested the Russian and Belarusian anthems at this week’s European Championships, the UGF has issued a call for global action.FIG Ends RestrictionsOn May 18, the World Gymnastics (FIG) Executive Committee lifted “all restrictions applicable” to Russian and Belarusian athletes, ending more than four years of restrictions stemming from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. With the controversial move, Russian and Belarusian nationals can now compete freely under national colors, flags, and anthems. Despite heavy backlash from Ukraine, World Gymnastics’ ruling took immediate effect, permitting full participation by Russian and Belarusian athletes at this week’s European Gymnastics Championships in Varna, Bulgaria.After their athletes shared the podium with competitors from the 'aggressor and satellite state,’ the Ukrainian Gymnastics Federation launched into protest.ForbesRussia’s Skating Ban Could Be Lifted At June's ISU CongressBy Caroline PriceUkraine Protests at European ChampionshipsAfter finishing behind Russian and Belarusian competitors in two individual events, Ukrainian gymnasts covered their eyes and inserted headphones...