Russian Olympic athletes who participated in a rally supporting Vladimir Putin and the invasion of Ukraine are facing a backlash, with one losing a sponsorship deal and facing a disciplinary investigation.
Medalists from cross-country skiing, gymnastics, figure skating and swimming gathered on stage at the Luzhniki Stadium on Friday as part of the concert and entertainment program around Putin’s speech.
Olympic champion swimmer Evgeny Rylov is under investigation for attending the event, the sport’s governing body told the Associated Press.
“Fina is deeply disappointed to note the reports regarding Evgeny Rylov’s appearance at the Luzhniki Stadium during Friday’s rally. We are investigating the matter further,” the governing body said in an email on Tuesday.
Rylov has also lost his endorsement deal with swimwear manufacturer Speedo because of his involvement in the rally.
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