Ukraine Takes a Harsh Step Against Figure Skating Olympic Medalist Viktor Petrenko After His Performance in Russia

In a recent turn of events, 1992 Winter Olympic gold medalist Viktor Petrenko stands dismissed as Vice President of the Ukrainian Figure Skating Federation. He now faces termination for participating in a gathering in Russia.

The development came given Petrenko’s participation in a figure skating exhibition in Russia. Tatyana Navka, the wife of Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, planned the event. Following this, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian President, rolled back Petrenko’s monthly stipend. 

Ukrainian Skating officials rebuke Viktor Petrenko

Viktor Petrenko posted “NO WAR” on his Instagram account as Russia started its invasion of Ukraine in February. Petrenko seemed to be one of many Ukrainian athletes who would stand for their country during the war; however, the recent events have eroded his reputation as a champion in his home nation.

The Navka’s ice performance is titled “The Scarlet Flower.” It is scheduled from July 1 to September 30 in the Russian city of Sochi. Petrenko’s decision to participate in it “outraged” Federation members.

Condemning Viktor, the officials issued a statement that translates as “The NOC of Ukraine strongly condemns and considers unacceptable the act of Viktor Petrenko, who recently participated in ice shows in Sochi – on the territory of the aggressor country, which is waging a brutal war against Ukraine.“

At the event, Petrenko played the role of father for Kamila Valieva, a 16-year-old Russian figure skater. She finished fourth at the Beijing Olympics.

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Petrenko decided to leave the Ukrainian figure skating federation known in June. He now stands a provisional dismissal from his role in July.

What’s in Store for The Ice Skating Legend?

Petrenko, a 53-year-old native of Odesa, has won three European championships and gold medals in the solo figure skating events at the 1992 Winter Olympics and World Championships.

The war has interfered with skating, just as it does with other aspects of life in Ukraine. Petrenko now generally performs his professional skating activities, primarily outside of Ukraine. In Europe, Petrenko devotes much of his time to instructing and skating.

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Ukrainian medalists at the Olympics and Paralympics are eligible to receive lifelong stipends from their country. However, if they leave to work overseas or are fined by a national or international sports federation, then in such a case, payments may be suspended or terminated.

With the recent events unfolding, it is for the future to decide what’s in store for Viktor Petrenko.