British News Agency

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova commented on the treatment of Russian athletes at the 2026 Rhythmic Gymnastics World Challenge Cup held in Cluj-Napoca, Romania.

Zakharova stated that although the International Gymnastics Federation and European Gymnastics had lifted restrictions on Russian athletes, the organizers did not allow the Russian team to use its national flag and anthem during the competition.

She said that, as a result, the Russian side decided not to participate in the event and claimed that the restriction continued due to initiatives taken by the local authorities.

In her statement, Zakharova criticized both the organizers and the Romanian authorities, describing the incident as the politicization of international sport. She added that Russia would continue to raise the issue.