A former forward for Lokomotiv Moscow and the Russian national team, Dmitry Bulykin, spoke in an interview about the role of bonuses in international play. He argued that rewards should be paid to players who represent their nation, framing bonuses as a meaningful incentive that can elevate performance on the world stage.
According to Bulykin, financial rewards tied to national team duties complement a player’s motivation, reinforcing the desire to bring their best to each match. He noted that for many athletes the inclusion of bonuses in national team agreements is a welcome addition, providing a tangible boost beyond the pure honor of competing for the country.
“For many players, bonuses in the national team are an added bonus. You do not need to play for free in the national team. These bonuses are very enjoyable and motivating. Of course they should be. Patriotism still exists no matter how much money they pay or even if they play for free. But a nice bonus also motivates, this is necessary,” Bulykin stated.
The sporting week in Russia saw the national team secure a 4-0 victory over Serbia in a March meeting held in Moscow. In addition, preparations for the March 25 contest against Paraguay were disrupted due to security concerns arising from events at Crocus City Hall, leading to the match being canceled to ensure the safety of players and fans alike.
In domestic competition, attention turned to the Russian Premier League (RPL) as the 22nd round began with the clash between Dinamo and Rostov. Scheduled for a Friday evening at the capital’s VTB Arena, the fixture was set to kick off at 19:30 Moscow time, drawing interest from fans across the country who follow the league’s evolving form and standings.
Earlier in the season, the Georgian national team had reached the finals in Euro 2024 qualification discussions, highlighting ongoing competitive momentum across European football. These developments illustrate how national team commitments, scheduling, and the economics of bonuses intersect with the broader rhythm of elite football in the region, influencing player choices, team strategies, and fan engagement in both Russia and neighboring countries.”