Kazan (AP) – The world judo association has suspended Russian President Vladimir Putin as honorary president and ambassador of the sport. This was announced by the IFJ, reacting to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Kremlin chief Putin is himself a black belt holder.
Now the President of the European Judo Federation, Sergei Soloweitschik, has also announced his resignation. The Russian had led the EJU since 2007, and the German Otto Kneitinger will now take the lead as interim president.
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. The EJU, for example, recently presented three new sponsors from Russia.
The Grand Slam planned for May in Kazan, Russia, was recently canceled. The sports community must remain united and strong to support one another to promote peace and friendship, harmony and unity, the federation said in a statement on Friday.