International Judo Federation suspends Vladimir Putin as honorary president

The President of Russia, Vladimir Putin was suspended as honorary president of the International Judo Federation (IJF) after the invasion launched against Ukraineas reported by the sports entity.

“Due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the International Judo Federation announced the suspension of Vladimir Putin’s status as honorary president and international ambassador of the Judo Federation,” the federation said in a statement posted on its social media. officers.

Putin, who is an accomplished judoka, was awarded the ‘eighth dan’, one of the highest ranks in the discipline, shows off its sporty character and has often promoted a healthy lifestyle. His image contrasts sharply with that of his predecessor Boris Yeltsin.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine continues to affect professional sports, with canceled competitions, rejection of sporting matches against Russia, athletes declared ‘persona non grata’ and sponsorships on the air are some of the consequences.