The Yaroslavl football club Shinnik refutes the claim that its players were intoxicated during a confrontation with the Ukrainian team Minaj at a hotel in Turkey. The denial comes after a Telegram channel known as Baza circulated statements attributed to staff at the Royal Seginus hotel, suggesting that several players appeared heavily drunk during the encounter.
In a clear rebuttal, the general manager of Shinnik, Sergey Kulakov, dismissed the allegations as false and asserted that the hotel and the Ukrainian club would defend themselves against any misrepresentation. Kulakov stressed that the hotel should be accountable for ensuring security and for reporting accurate details about what occurred, rather than casting blame on the visiting team. He also indicated that the matter should be settled with factual evidence rather than rumors and suggested the hotel provide verifiable proof if such evidence exists.
The incident in question reportedly unfolded on February 14 at the Royal Seginus Hotel in Antalya. Shinnik’s side issued an official statement, arguing that the Ukrainian representatives provoked the confrontation and that the Yaroslavl squad stood up in defense of a teammate who was allegedly assaulted. The club maintained that the injuries or threats reported at the scene were the responsibility of those who initiated the conflict, not of Shinnik players acting in defense of a teammate.
Shinnik participates in the First Division and, following twenty rounds of play, holds ninth place with a tally of 28 points. The club’s performance on the field contrasts with the unsettled narrative surrounding the hotel incident, a reminder of how quickly misinterpretations can spread in the fast-moving world of sports coverage. As both clubs prepare to address the situation through official channels, observers and fans alike are urged to await verified information before drawing conclusions about player behavior away from the pitch.
Ultimately, the episode underscores the importance of reliable statements from hotel staff and club representatives. It also highlights the pressure on sports teams during international travel, where media feeds and social channels can amplify unconfirmed reports. The clubs involved are expected to cooperate with any inquiries, ensuring that safety protocols were followed and that accountability is clear. In the aftermath, the focus remains on the team’s on-field results and the broader aim of maintaining a respectful, safe environment for players, staff, and supporters wherever competitions may take place.