A Russian gymnast is being investigated for wearing the pro-war symbol 'Z' on his chest as he stood next to a Ukrainian competitor on the medal podium. Bronze-medal winning Ivan Kuliak has been criticised for his 'shocking behaviour' at the Apparatus World Cup in Doha, Qatar, on Saturday.
The Russian had been competing in the parallel bars events, coming third to Ukraine's Illia Kovtun, and taped the 'Z' to his leotard. The symbol generally means 'victory' within Russia's military, the MirrorOnline reports.
A ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes from wearing their countries' uniform is in place after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Gold-medal winner Kovtun did not acknowledge the third-placed Russian at all during the ceremony.
The 'z' symbol has been spray painted onto Russian tanks and other armoured vehicles which rolled into Ukrainian territory after President Vladimir Putin gave the invasion order. It has also been worn by politicians and influencers who support Putin's war.
The BBC reports that The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) said it had begun disciplinary proceedings against Kuliak for his "shocking behaviour". A full ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes comes into force on Monday.
There was criticism of Kuliak on social media. "Ban Ivan Kuliak from gymnastics immediately!" wrote @JusteHalavin, who added: "Putting letter Z is like putting Swastika on the uniform – that’s supporting war, killing innocent people, promoting hate and putting this beautiful sport to shame."
@IzbasaG added: "This was extremely violent. Imagine how traumatic this must have been for the Ukrainian athletes. Shame. He should not be there in the first place. I hope FIG will punish this action."
