The days go by and invasion from Ukraine by Russia generates even more consequences for the country presided over by Vladimir Putin. And the effects of the war offensive also reach the world of sports.
In recent days, the expulsions of Russian teams and selections from football and basketball competitions have been confirmed. As well as the change of venue for the Champions League final. Also as Formula 1 canceled the Grand Prix that had to be held at the Sochi circuit. Or in judo, Putin loses the honorary presidency. And now there is a new measure that has been taken by the brand that sponsored and produced the kits of the Russian national football team.
A Russian soccer stadium before a match of the 2018 World Cup / EFE
Adidas cancels its contract with Russia
The sporting goods manufacturer Adidas has discontinued with immediate effect the sponsorship collaboration with the Russian Football Federation. Another quick reaction after the Russian invasion of Ukraine last Thursday. Therefore, this separation Adidas It is a new blow for Russia.
Precisely, the German brand had a turnover of 584 million euros in Russia and in the Commonwealth of Independent States in 2020, which is 11% less than in 2019. That means that Adidas will still lose more weight in Russia, but the business Russian is only 3% of the total volume of the German brand.
The decision, furthermore, comes just after FIFA has also excluded the Russian team from the World Cup in Qatar. Russia had to face the playoffs to access the world championship, but has already been out of the competition.
Adidas headquarters / EuropaPress
More suspensions for Russia and Belarus in the world of sports
Along the same lines, the International Athletics Federation (World Athletics) has also acted, which has agreed this Tuesday to exclude athletes, support staff and managers from Russia and Belarus from all its championships due to the invasion of Ukraine. This means that the first effects on competitions will begin at the World Outdoor Championships in Oregon and the Indoor Championships in Belgrade, as well as the team walking championships in Muscat, Oman.
In tennis, the International Tennis Federation has expelled Russia and Belarus from the Davis Cup and the BJK Cup, but tennis players will be able to continue competing individually without representing their country.
Among the many measures adopted in the world of sport, it also stands out that the Rugby Europe board of directors has agreed to suspend the federations of Russia and Belarus as members of this body. But they have also decided to cancel their participation in all continental competitions in all age categories.
Main image: The Champions League ball of the Adidas brand / EuropaPress
