The sanction may seem anecdotal, but it speaks volumes about Russia’s isolation in the international sports movement since its invasion of Ukraine. The International Judo Federation (IJF) announced on Sunday 27 February the “suspension” of Vladimir Putin’s status as honorary president and ambassador. The Russian president is not banned, but only suspended from an honorary status obtained in 2008. He could also lose his 8th dan, one of the highest ranks in judo, awarded in 2012. Vladimir Putin is the only Russian to have achieved this rank in the discipline. “In light of the ongoing war conflict in Ukraine, the International Judo Federation announces the suspension of Mr. Vladimir Putin’s status as Honorary President and Ambassador of the International Judo Federation,” wrote the body chaired by Marius Vizer. A confirmed judoka, the Russian president attended the world championships in Budapest in 2017 and 2021.
