Kazan (AP) – The world judo association has relieved Russian President Vladimir Putin and his childhood friend and oligarch Arkady Rotenberg of all offices.
In the brief statement from the IJB, no reason was given for the measure, nor was any reference made to Russia’s attack on Ukraine.
The world association had already suspended Putin (69) as honorary president and ambassador of the sport last week and called the “ongoing war conflict in Ukraine” in its statement. Kremlin chief Putin is himself a black belt holder. Rotenberg retained his post as a member of the Executive Committee until this Sunday. The 70-year-old is considered a close confidante and supporter of Putin. Both were among others in the same judo club in their childhood.
A week ago, Sergei Soloweitschik also announced his resignation as President of the European Judo Federation. The Russian had led the EJU since 2007.
In judo, the influence of Russia is enormous. World Association President Marius Vizer is considered a friend of Putin. In addition, the two most important associations (IJF and EJU) are supported by numerous Russian companies.