I don’t like that there is a Russian flag here: Klitschko slams the organizers of the European boxing Championship

Volodymyr Klitschko criticized allowing Russian boxers to participate in Euro-2026 with the flag and anthem. The Ukrainian called to review this decision.

Former heavyweight world champion Volodymyr Klitschko arrived in Sofia as a special guest of the European Boxing Championship. During the tournament, the Ukrainian reacted to the decision to admit Russian athletes to the competition with state symbols, according to BTV Sport.

Klitschko spoke out against Russian symbolism

In the Russian national team at the European Championship are 20 boxers. The aggressor country’s representatives compete under their own flag, and in case of victory they are scheduled to perform the national anthem.

Klitschko stated that he does not support such a decision and believes it should be reviewed.

I am not satisfied with the decision that Russian athletes can compete under their flag and hear their anthem. So many athletes, children, and people have lost their lives even during this tournament. I am against this! I don’t like that there is a Russian flag here. I hope this decision will be reviewed!

– Klitschko said in an interview with a Bulgarian channel.

The Ukrainian also called for preserving sanctions

Klitschko also spoke in favor of continuing sporting sanctions against Russia. In his view, punishments must remain visible, as they demonstrate the international community’s attitude toward the country’s actions.

There must be consequences! If there are no consequences when you do evil in society, it means you support it. Society must see these sanctions!

– added the former world champion.

The European Boxing Championship is taking place in Sofia. Klitschko attended the tournament as a special guest and spoke with organizers’ representatives and athletes.

As a reminder, in the United States the death of the former fiancée of the legendary Ukrainian boxer Hadyn Panettiere continues to be investigated.