President of the Russian Ski Racing Federation (FLGR) Elena Vyalbe said that traitors are not needed anywhere, speaking about the decision of Russian fencers Sergei Bida and Konstantin Lokhanov to obtain American citizenship in order to represent the USA at the 2024 Summer Olympics. His words lead the way RIA News.
“I don’t like traitors at all. They are not needed anywhere and no one likes them. This will not last long. Even if something is done for them, it does not mean that they will become Americans. The main sponsor of every athlete is the state. It is a shame to run away, they are just stupid,” said Vyalbe.
USA Today reported that Sergei Bida, as well as former saber fencer for the Russian national team, Konstantin Lokhanov, plan to compete for the U.S. team at the 2024 Olympics in Paris. At the same time, Sergei Bida’s wife, Violetta Bida, will not be able to participate in the Games due to pregnancy.
On December 26, the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs put the spouses on the wanted list. They face up to ten years in prison. Epee fencers, consisting of active officers of the Russian Guard and active military personnel, participated in the US Championship without the permission of the Russian side.
Mother of fencer Bida, who previously left Russia statedHe said he did not want to become a US citizen.