Sobyanin Cancels Weekend Public Events in Moscow Amid Security Concerns
The Moscow mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, announced a suspension of all sports, cultural, and other public gatherings for the upcoming weekend. The decision was shared through his official Telegram channel, where he stated the measure was necessary and asked residents to understand the precaution.
Earlier this week, speculation about potential threats intensified after an incident at Crocus City Mall on March 22. Initial reports indicated a shooting followed by an explosion, resulting in a significant number of injuries. A scheduled performance by the Piknik group was set to take place that evening at the shopping center, but the event was disrupted by the events unfolding at the venue.
In addition to the disruption at Crocus City Mall, several high-profile sports events were on the calendar for the weekend in Moscow. Plans included women’s football Super League matches, a First Football League clash between Torpedo and Kuban, and the Gagarin Cup quarter-final between Spartak and Metallurg. The city has not provided a clear update on the status of these games, as officials assess safety and security considerations for attendees and participants.
Questions about a scheduled football match between Russia and Paraguay on March 25 were also left unanswered by authorities, who continue to evaluate the broader security situation and the potential impact on international sports events in the capital.
In related developments, the International Skating Union issued a statement regarding the status of Russian figure skaters, signaling ongoing discussions about participation and eligibility in future events. The message emphasizes ongoing assessments and the evolving nature of eligibility considerations within the sport.