Elizaveta Polstyana Chooses to Return to Russia, Latvian Gymnastics Federation Responds
The Latvian Gymnastics Federation announced the withdrawal of rhythmic gymnast Elizaveta Polstyana from the Latvian national team and her decision to resume training in Russia. The move comes after Polstyana, who holds dual Russian and Latvian citizenship, stated that she would have to renounce her Russian passport to remain eligible to compete. She asserted that without this step she would be barred from participating in major events, including the 2022 World Championships scheduled to take place in Bulgaria from September 12 to 18. The federation acknowledged her choice and confirmed that Polstyana is now back in Russia, stepping away from Latvia to continue her career there. (TASS)
Natalia Prokofieva, Secretary General of the Latvian Gymnastics Federation, commented on the development, noting that the decision surprised the federation and expressing regret that emotions appeared to override practical judgment in this instance. She stated that the federation had been prepared to seek a reasonable compromise, but ultimately the decision was for the athlete to make. (TASS)
Polstyana, who turned 19 recently, has roots in Latvia but began competing for the Latvian national team in 2018. In the spring prior to these events, she faced bans related to her studies in Russia, which added layers to the broader discussion about eligibility, allegiance, and the practical pressures facing dual citizens in international sport. (TASS)
Earlier reporting from the Latvian portal La.lv referenced an article titled “Rhythmic gymnast Elizaveta Polstyana is confused in translation.” The piece, authored by Gints Narogs, argued that a Russian-origin athlete who has represented Latvia since 2018 might have misunderstood messaging from the Latvian Olympic Association. (La.lv)
In reviewing this matter, observers have emphasized the complexities that dual citizenship introduces to national team selection, eligibility rules, and long-term career planning for athletes who train across borders. Officials from Latvia have stressed the importance of clear communication and consistent policies, while acknowledging the personal implications for Polstyana as she navigates competitive opportunities in different nations. As this situation unfolded, experts noted the broader pattern of athletes balancing national representation with personal and regulatory constraints, a debate that continues to shape rhythmic gymnastics across the region. (TASS)