Russian Olympic cross-country skiing champion Aleksandr Bolshunov has accused the West of blaming Russia for all the world’s problems, while insisting that sport should not be undermined by politics.
Bolshunov won a haul of five medals – including three gold – at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics in February, but now finds himself banned from international competitions along with his fellow Russians because of the conflict in Ukraine.
Speaking to Norwegian channel TV2, the 25-year-old said he was upset to be missing out on major events, especially as sport should serve the purpose of bringing people together.
“I’m certainly disappointed that we will not be able to take part in the World Cup and the World Championship,” Bolshunov said.
“Those [athletes] who will now participate there could perhaps put themselves in our position. I would like to see how they react.
“People in the West should stop blaming us Russians for everything. Maybe we need support instead? Sport is…
