Ivan Kuliak: Gymnast faces disciplinary action over Russian war symbol on podium.

• A 'Z' was taped on the front of Ivan Kuliak's shirt.
• A symbol that has been reported to signify "victory" in Russian and has been observed on tanks involved in the invasion.

The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) is taking disciplinary action against Ivan Kuliak after he wore a Russian war symbol on the podium at a World Cup event in Doha.

In Qatar, Russian gymnast Kuliak came in third place in the event, with Ukrainian Illia Kovtun winning, against the backdrop of Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

On the podium, Kuliak was observed with a 'Z' taped on his shirt - a symbol associated with victory in Russian and reportedly present on tanks involved in the invasion.

The 'Z' symbol was used in place of the Russian flag, which was prohibited by gymnastics' governing body, and the federation has now requested the Gymnastics Ethics Foundation to investigate the matter.

The Gymnastics Ethics Foundation will be asked to initiate disciplinary proceedings against male artistic gymnast Ivan Kuliak (RUS) due to his inappropriate behavior at the Apparatus World Cup in Doha, Qatar, according to a statement from the International Gymnastics Federation.

On 4 March, the FIG adopted additional measures against Russia and Belarus. Effective from 7 March 2022, Russian and Belarusian athletes, officials, and judges are prohibited from participating in FIG competitions or FIG-approved events.