Georgian fans booed the Russian anthem at the European Judo Championships in Tbilisi
During the 2026 European Judo Championships, which are being held in Tbilisi, Georgian fans booed the Russian anthem. This happened during the award ceremony for Russian judoka Timur Arbuzov, who won the gold medal. In addition, shouts were heard from the stands: “Russia is an occupier.” This was reported by Match TV and other media.
Russian judokas are participating in the European Championships with national symbols. Ukraine is represented by 12 athletes at the tournament in Tbilisi.
In 2023, the International Judo Federation, following the recommendations of the IOC, returned athletes from Belarus and the Russian Federation to participate in tournaments in a neutral status – without flags, anthems and other national symbols.
Before being admitted, athletes were checked for possible connections with the army and law enforcement agencies. Public support for the invasion of Ukraine could also be a reason for suspension.
Last summer, the International Judo Federation announced the admission of Russians to competitions under the national flag.
Previously, it was reported that protests were taking place in Georgia over the admission of Russians to the World Fencing Championships.
