Russian professional cyclist Aleksandr Vlasov has expressed his horror at his home country's war against Ukraine.
In an Instagram post, the 25-year-old from the German racing team Bora-hansgrohe found clear words. "Like many other Russians, I just want peace. I'm not a political person, and normal people like me weren't asked if we wanted war. It was a shock for everyone and I hope it ends soon," wrote the cycling specialist. He sympathises with all the people who are suffering. As an athlete, he sees it as his job to unite and not divide.
On Tuesday, the UCI suspended national teams and racing teams from Russia and Belarus from international races. However, professionals like Vlasov are still allowed to race with their international teams, but not under the flag of their country. Competitions in Russia and Belarus will no longer be held for the time being, and applications for future UCI events will also no longer be pursued.
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