Former Russian Sports Minister Pavel Kolobkov believes that the Ukrainian Fencing Federation should improve its sport and not file a complaint with the International Olympic Committee (IOC). stated that TASS.
“I would like to advise the Ukrainian federation to develop their favorite sport. I hope there are still sane people who will stop mixing sports with politics and start their activities directly. I am sure that these actions of Ukrainian sports organizations disturb the entire international sports community,” said Kolobkov.
In the 1/32 final of the World Championship held in Milan on 27 July, Ukrainian Olga Kharlan defeated Russian Anna Smirnova with a score of 15:7. After the victory, Harlan refused the forced handshake and left the lane. The athlete was disqualified from a personal tournament.
The day after the incident, the International Fencing Federation’s (FIE) board of directors reversed Harlan’s disqualification, which had enabled him to participate in team competitions.
Later, Ukrainians complained to the IOC about Russia’s reluctance to suspend FIE membership.
Previously in the State Duma declarationHe said the FIE should punish the Ukrainian Fencing Federation.