Russian swimmer and world record holder Kliment Kolesnikov explained why he decided to refuse to participate in the World Championships as a neutral. His words guide the way RIA Novosti.
“I am not considering Budapest at the moment for several reasons. The first of them is the absence of the flag and anthem of the Russian Federation. Secondly, I consciously prepared for the Russian Championship and the preparations did not go as smoothly as planned and I am not ready to travel as a passenger,” said Kolesnikov.
Kolesnikov qualified for the World Championships by winning the 50-meter backstroke at the Russian Championships.
Kolesnikov is a two-time medalist at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, a five-time world champion in short track, a six-time European champion and an 11-time European champion in short track. On January 10, 2024, the International Swimming Federation (World Aquatics) recognized the world record in the 50-meter backstroke – 23.55 seconds – set by Kolesnikov in the semi-finals of the Russian Cup.
20 November World Water Sports updated Rules for the admission of Russian athletes to competitions with neutral status. This version does not say that the standard for participation in major competitions must be met outside Russia and Belarus, so the Russian championship is a qualifier for the world championship.
Previously information revealedThat Russian gymnasts can return to international competitions.