Shubenkov about a future with a neutral status: then in Russia there’s no need to finish eating without salt?
World champion in hurdles Sergei Shubenkov spoke about obtaining neutral status in order to compete at the Olympic Games. His words are quoted by Sports.
Shubenkov recalled the situation with pentathlete Ulyana Batashova, who decided to go to the Olympics without a flag and anthem. The athlete was removed from all bets on the Russian national team.
“How would I live in this case? Foreign sponsors left in 2022, there are no Russian ones at all, let’s say I’m still being removed from government salaries. And I have a family. Finish horseradish without salt for the sake of a lofty idea? – he said. Shubenkov added that he does not want to leave Russia, and the neutral status that is being proposed this time will bring him many difficulties.
Shubenkov is the 2015 world champion in the 110-meter hurdles, Russian record holder and three-time European champion at this distance. The Russian was among the participants in the 2020 Olympics, but was unable to start the qualifying race due to injury.
Russians and Belarusians were allowed to participate in the 2024 Games as individual neutral athletes. At the same time, athletes who support a special operation in Ukraine, as well as those who have connections with the armed forces or security agencies of Russia and Belarus, will not be allowed to participate in the competition. In addition, representatives of team sports will miss the tournament.
Source: Lenta
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