Nagorny Criticizes Absurd Reasons for Denial of Neutral Status for Athletes

Russian gymnast and Olympic champion from the Tokyo 2020 Games in team events, **Nikita Nagorny**, commented on the decision of Russian athletes with neutral status to withdraw from competitions sanctioned by the FIG.

«I feel compelled to address the situation that unfolded today. The athletes of the Russian artistic gymnastics team have collectively decided to refrain from participating in upcoming international competitions. What led to this decision? Not long ago, we submitted lists of athletes, coaches, and specialists for neutral status approval. Unfortunately, the verdict was both positive and negative. The reasons for the refusals are sometimes absurd or simply unjust. I would like to share one such reason for an athlete who will not be able to compete on the international stage. How can the guys compete, knowing that a colleague from their profession is unable to share the international platform due to these reasons? We are fully united in our support for the athletes. We hope that justice will prevail soon.

Photo: From Nikita Nagorny’s social media

One example:

An athlete was penalized for being subscribed to a group on social media that announced the Fifth All-Russian Anti-Doping Dictation, held in conjunction with Physically Fit Day. Through this dictation, athletes, coaches, parents, fans, and other interested parties can test their knowledge about anti-doping.

Experts from the committee misinterpreted the Latin numeral V as one of the symbols of the Special Military Operation,» Nagorny stated on social media.