The chief of the sports authority praised the athletes for their decent performance at the Games, emphasizing that their participation marks a significant step toward restoring the rights of Russian athletes.
“You were standing up for our country, and we were all cheering for you. You showed that even in complex geopolitical situations, it is possible to achieve success in international elite sports. Now just earning an Olympic qualification is a significant accomplishment in itself. Thank you for your courage and resilience. I genuinely believe that in four years, at the next Olympic Winter Games, many of you will bring home medals thanks to the experience you have gained,” said the ROC leader.
The senior official of the sports industry emphasized the significance of the national team’s return to the global stage.
“Ministry of Sport of the Russian Federation and the Russian Olympic Committee are doing everything we can to ensure the Russian national team makes a strong return to the international stage, representing our country with the flag and anthem. We are currently in negotiations where needed, and where that doesn’t yield results, we are asserting the athletes’ rights in court to ensure our team can fully compete for medals,” said Degtyarev.
Nikita Filippov, the silver medalist in ski mountaineering, at the 2026 Olympic Games, delivered a speech on behalf of all the athletes.
“I want to take a moment to sincerely thank the Russian Olympic Committee, the Russian Mountaineering Federation for their support. I truly recognize that this medal, this result reflects everyone’s hard work and dedication. This achievement is not just mine or my coach’s; it is a testament to the hard work of the whole Russia. It is a bittersweet to think this is our only medal from these Olympic Games, but I am truly grateful for it. I wear it proudly around my neck,” said the athlete.
During the solemn event, Michael Degtyarev presented Nikita Filippov with the title of “Honored Master of Sports of Russia”, while the other Olympic Games 2026 participants received memorable gifts from the Russian Olympic Committee and the sponsors.
The Ministry of Industry and Trade (Minpromtorg) provided the Olympians with domestically produced KVADRA_T tablets. In addition, the athletes received gifts from the Russian Ski Association, including items from Bosco, the official outfitter for Russia’s national teams, as well as presents from companies like Beeline, Tricolor Sport, and RUSKLIMAT.
