State Duma Deputy Irina Rodnina called the change of sports citizenship a normal phenomenon
Three-time Olympic champion in figure skating and State Duma deputy Irina Rodnina appreciated the desire of Zenit legionnaires Malcolm and Claudinho to obtain Russian citizenship. Her words are quoted by RB Sport.
Rodnina called this initiative of the players an indicator that they are comfortable living in Russia. She added that she considers the change of sports citizenship to be normal. “I don’t see anything surprising here. Representatives of other countries have repeatedly performed for Russia, as well as our athletes competed under non-native flags, ”explained Rodnina.
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On February 17, it was reported that Malcolm and Claudinho would receive Russian passports in the spring of 2023. It was clarified that the desire to become citizens of Russia was expressed by the players themselves, and the club supported this intention.
Malcom has been playing for Zenit since 2019. As part of the St. Petersburg team, he became a three-time champion of Russia, won the country’s Super Cup three times and became the winner of the Russian Cup. Claudinho joined the Blue-White-Blues in 2021 and, together with the club, became the champion of Russia and the owner of the Russian Super Cup.
Source: Lenta
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