Russian Federation Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyarev commented on the situation with Russian athletes who have changed their sports citizenship.
He noted: "If a Russian athlete has decided to renounce their citizenship to participate in international competitions, this is treason. We must deny them access to the country and strip them of all titles. We are actively fighting this phenomenon. I have already signed the relevant order. We provide these athletes with everything they need: training, facilities, and they, having thrown away their passport, leave. We will deprive them of the right to enter the country and use our sports facilities."
Currently, Malik Shavaev, a two-time champion of Russia, is competing for the Kyrgyzstan national team in freestyle wrestling. At the end of December 2025, he became the champion of Kyrgyzstan and has already managed to win a medal at an international tournament.
Previously, athletes such as Arslan Budazhapov, Zhargalan Budazhapov, and Aligadji Gamidgadzhiyev also represented the Kyrgyzstan national team.
