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Hungarian Olympic chiefs replace Russian-born skaters after political backlash
A last-minute controversy overshadowed Hungary’s presence at the Winter Olympics closing ceremony after plans for two Russian-born figure skaters to carry the national flag were abruptly reversed following political pressure.
According to a report by Magyar Hang, the Hungarian Olympic Committee (MOB) had initially selected figure skating pair Maria Pavlova and Alexei Sviatchenko to lead the Hungarian team at the closing event. The duo finished fourth in the pairs competition.
The decision was first communicated via the state news agency MTI, which described the honour in neutral terms and noted the skaters were moved by the recognition.
Questions over nationality and ties to Russia
However, criticism quickly followed. Although the pair compete under Hungarian colours, they reportedly live and train in Sochi with Russian coaches and do not speak Hungarian.
Their citizenship was granted with the support of the Hungarian skating federation, headed by politician Lajos Kósa. Observers suggested the move enabled them to compete internationally at a time when Russian athletes face restrictions due to the war in Ukraine.
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The sheer symbolism of who carries the flag of Hungary is incredibly important. That Hungary would pick two Russians with Hungarian passports of convenience speaks volumes about what is going on in this country. Hungary has become so closely attached that it resembles a province of Russia. Citizenship is made interchangeable.