The European Weightlifting Championship in Yerevan saw a controversial incident as security footage reported a flag dispute during the opening ceremony. An Armenian spectator reportedly removed the Azerbaijani flag from the bearer and set it alight before exiting the hall, an act witnessed by attendees and later confirmed by News.am. The episode occurred during the flag procession, a moment normally reserved for formal respect among competing nations, and it drew immediate attention from the crowd and officials alike.
The ceremony took place on April 14, with the Azerbaijani flag drawing audible disapproval from portions of the audience as it moved through the arena. In a rapid sequence of events, a spectator rushed onto the stage, seized the flag from the holder, and ignited it before removing the burning remnants from the venue. Reports indicate that Armenian supporters also reacted to a Turkish flag display by whistling, a common gesture observed in emotionally charged moments around international sports ceremonies.
Following the opening events, the European Men’s and Women’s Weightlifting Championships were scheduled to run from April 15 to 23, bringing together athletes from multiple nations to compete across a range of weight categories. The event, seen as a showcase for regional talent, drew attention not only for athletic performances but also for the broader social and political tensions that can accompany international sports gatherings.
In another note connected to Armenian football culture, former Pyunik Yerevan goalkeeper Stanislav Buchnev commented on how local prices have shifted amid population changes linked to arrivals from Russia. The veteran goalkeeper, who represented Armenia internationally, followed domestic football closely and provided observations on economic conditions affecting fans and players alike.
Prior to his stint with Pyunik, Buchnev played in Russia until 2020, transferring from Fakel Voronezh at the close of the 2019/2020 season. From 2021 onward, he received calls to join the Armenian national team, earning a trio of appearances in which he faced several penalties. His experience reflects a broader narrative of Armenian footballers who have spent time abroad and then returned to contribute to national competitions.