Russia cancels rugby match with Georgia due to ‘political tension’
By Tea Mariamidze
Monday, July 22
The Russian Rugby Federation believes it is impossible to hold a game with the national teams of Georgia planned for August 27, 2019, in Tbilisi, citing political tensions as the main reason.
The statement released by the Russian Rugby Federation reads that they have been observing recent developments in Tbilisi with “deep concern,” referring to the anti-Russian protest rallies that have been underway in the country for over a month.
“Unfortunately, the actions of radical-minded individuals on the territory of Georgia lead to instances of disturbing public order and may pose a threat to the lives and health of people in this country. Due to these circumstances, we inform you that the Rugby Federation of Russia considers it impossible to hold a match between the national teams of Georgia and Russia, scheduled for August 27, in Tbilisi,” the statement reads.
Russian Rugby union also says that they “deeply appreciates” the partnership established with the Georgian Rugby Union, and consider it necessary to recall that one of the fundamental principles of the game is solidarity and mutual respect that go beyond cultural, geographical, political and religious differences.
“We sincerely apologize to the fans of both teams,” the statement concludes.
Georgian Rugby president Gocha Svanidze also confirmed that the match is canceled.
“Unfortunately, the Russian national team will not come to Tbilisi for the test match based on the decision taken by Russian Rugby Federation, motivated by the current situation in Tbilisi and the risk of provocations,” he said.
Svanidze noted Georgia has to accept the decision of Russia as a fact.
“We are already looking for the new opponent for the Lelo’s August 27 Test. Georgia has hosted such games in the past, hosts them now and will host more in the future, always in a safe, fair and positive atmosphere,” he stated.
Svanidze says the safety of guests is guaranteed by the Government of Georgia, which receives all possible support from Georgia Rugby Union.
“Those who already purchased tickets for Georgia vs. Russia test-match, can either attend the match which will be played instead of or get a reimbursement. The Lelos’ new opponent will be identified in the nearest days,” he said.
The protests were launched in Georgia on June 20 after the Russian MPs arrived in Tbilisi to participate in the Inter-parliamentary Assembly on Orthodoxy (IAO) session. During the session, Russian MP Sergey Gavrilov addressed the IAO participants from the chair of the Georgian Parliament Speaker, which angered Georgian opposition MPs and protesters outside the building, who tried to enter the parliament, which escalated the situation between the demonstrators and the police.
Around 240 people were injured during the protests while up to 300 were arrested. Later, a decision was taken to wrap up the session and for the Russian delegation to leave the country.
Following the developments, Russian President Vladimir Putin imposed a ban on direct flights with Georgia.
The protests underway in the country are peaceful, according to its organizers.
The government of Georgia also has stated many times that the safety of all visitors, including Russians, is guaranteed in the country.
