Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak banned for one year for wearing pro-Ukraine war symbol "Z"
CBSSep 09, 2022
The Facts
Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak has been banned from competing for a year after he sported a "Z" war symbol on his chest at a Gymnastics World Cup event in Qatar.
The letter has reportedly become a symbol of support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine after being seen on Russian tanks and other military vehicles.
The Spin
Pro-Russia narrative
This decision is completely lawless and reveals the federation's inability to cope with the mounting pressure from politicians and business tycoons who want to regulate sports. The symbol wasn't worn with any offense or discrimination, and athletes shouldn't be punished for their government's actions.
Anti-Russia narrative
Whether deliberately offensive or not, Kuliak unrepentantly wore a symbol that commends Russia's invasion of Ukraine. In doing so, he violated the FIG statutes, code of discipline, and code of ethics. He should be held accountable.