Int’l Judo Federation removes Putin as president
The International Judo Federation (IJF) has taken personal action against Russian President Vladimir Putin following the invasion of Ukraine.
“In light of the ongoing war (conflict) in Ukraine, the International Judo Federation announces the suspension of Mr Vladimir Putin’s status as Honorary President and Ambassador of the International Judo Federation,” the sport’s governing body said in a statement on Sunday.
Mr Putin is a keen judo player and has reached the level of black belt in the sport.
Russia has huge influence in judo with IJU president Marius Vizer considered a friend of Mr Putin and the European governing body is led by Russian Sergey Soloveychik.
Both bodies receive considerable sponsorship from Russia.
The planned Grand Slam in Kazan in May was cancelled on Friday.
Russia is becoming increasingly isolated in the sports world but global football governing body FIFA has not yet responded to increasing concern and development regarding the matter.
Poland and Sweden have said they would not play against Russia in the play-offs for the World Cup in Qatar.
European football ruling body UEFA has already said matches cannot be played in Russia, or Ukraine.
(dpa/NAN)
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