"Old Russophobe": In Russia, they targeted a friend of Ukraine.

Former hockey player and Olympic champion Dominik Hasek believes that Russia should not be allowed to participate in the 2026 Olympics. Recently, the International Skating Union (ISU) permitted Russian figure skaters to compete in the qualifying rounds for the 2026 Olympics.

The relevant comment from Hasek is provided by "Championat". According to him, the Russian team at the Games would promote the war in Ukraine.

— In your opinion, is it possible that the Russian team will be allowed to participate in the 2026 Olympics?

— That would be a huge mistake. The Olympics would become a major advertisement for Russian aggression. Many people, including Russian citizens, would suffer. We must not allow this to happen, — said Hasek.

Immediately, the Russian segment of the Internet reacted strongly against the celebrated athlete. Russians have labeled Hasek as a Russophobe and more.

It is worth noting that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) will make a decision regarding the admission of the Russian hockey team to the 2026 Olympics after the organization's presidential elections from March 19 to 21. Recently, the ideal candidate for this position was named in Russia.

Let us remind you that Hasek actively opposes the "Russian world." In 2023 and 2024, he visited our country, where he received the award "Friend of Ukraine." The former athlete called on defenders of Ukraine to drive out the occupiers from the country. Additionally, the hockey player urged the NHL to allocate billions of dollars to Ukraine, as the world's top hockey league continues to collaborate with Russian athletes. Due to this stance, Hasek is often insulted in Russia.