Match TV: Degtyarev — "We ask for equal rights so that only sports competitions and events determine the strongest, not sanctions or political opportunism"

Russian Minister of Sports and Chairman of the Russian Olympic Committee Mikhail Degtyarev expressed gratitude to the Paralympic committees that supported the return of Russian athletes, noting that Russia, in general, asks for equal rights so that the strongest at international competitions are determined by the competitions themselves, not by politics.

On May 22, the State Kremlin Palace is hosting the award ceremony for the Russian Paralympic Committee's (RPC) "Return to Life" prize, dedicated to the RPC's 30th anniversary.

— "In your presence, I want to greet all our Paralympic champions — people with, as we say, unlimited capabilities. Your example today inspires veterans of the special military operation who have been wounded. Thank you very much for your will to win and for glorifying our country," said Degtyarev while presenting awards to Oksana Savchenko and Mikhailina Lysova.

Furthermore, Degtyarev noted from the stage the successes of Russian sports since the beginning of 2026:

— "Since the beginning of this year, 227 athletes have already competed at 22 international events under the flag and with the anthem of Russia, winning 117 medals, 59 of which are gold."

Together, we work as one team, defending the rights of our athletes at all levels. And I want to take this opportunity to separately thank, on behalf of the entire sports community, the Paralympic committees that supported Russia's return. Thank you very much. We do not demand special treatment. We simply ask for equal rights so that only sports competitions and events determine the strongest, not sanctions or political opportunism. So thank you once again very much, and I wish everyone faith, hope, and love. Love for Russia and sport unite us," Match TV correspondent reports Degtyarev's words.