Russian Federation Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyarev commented on the situation regarding Russians who have changed their sports citizenship.
He stated: “If a Russian athlete has decided to renounce their citizenship to participate in international competitions, then they should be banned from entering the country and stripped of all titles, as this is pure betrayal. We are actively opposing this. I have signed the relevant order, and new regulations are now in effect. We provide athletes with nutrition, coaches, and facilities, and they leave after discarding their passports. They should be deprived of everything, including a ban on entry and the use of sports facilities. We will definitely come to this,” the minister noted.
Currently, Malik Shavaev, a two-time champion of Russia, is competing for the Kyrgyzstan freestyle wrestling team. He became the champion of Kyrgyzstan at the end of December 2025 and has already won a medal at an international tournament.
Previously, athletes such as Arslan Budazhapov, Zhargalan Budazhapov, and Aligadji Gamidgadzhiyev represented the Kyrgyzstan team.
