Ukrainian Gymnastics Federation calls on the FIG to cancel the neutral status of gymnasts from the occupied territories
8 May 18:38
The Ukrainian Gymnastics Federation (UGF) has sent an official letter to the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) demanding that the neutral status of gymnasts Anastasia Ivanova and Victoria Chumakova, who come from the Ukrainian territories temporarily occupied by Russia, be revoked. This was reported by tribuna, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
The Ukrainian Gymnastics Federation emphasized that granting such a status contradicts the principles of neutrality, causes moral damage to Ukrainian society and undermines the authority of the FIG.
The Federation demands a thorough review and clear definition of the criteria for granting neutral status to avoid similar cases in the future.
The organization also expressed concern about the growing number of Ukrainian athletes who change their citizenship under pressure or influence from other countries. The UHF recalls that the Russian invasion has created a difficult environment for Ukrainian gymnasts, who may be vulnerable to external influence and misuse of their position.
The Ukrainian Gymnastics Federation calls on the FIG to take immediate action to protect the ethical principles of sport and prevent the war in Ukraine from becoming a tool for gaining advantages in international sport. The Federation expects the international organization to take responsibility and take into account the real challenges faced by Ukrainian gymnasts.
