Flags Banned, Smartphones Withheld, but Colleagues Smile — The Olympics Through Our Athletes' Eyes

Russian athletes note that they are treated friendly in the Olympic Village, even by representatives from countries whose governments formally banned contacts with Russians. Nevertheless, behind the outward comfort lie restrictions, reports Komsomolskaya Pravda. For example, Russian athletes were not given sponsor smartphones that all other participants received, and figure skater Petr Gumennik was excluded from the exhibition performances, although his participation was initially expected. Fans were also prohibited from bringing Russian flags and posters in Russian, forcing them to find alternative ways to support their athletes.

Additionally, figure skater Gumennik was not allowed to participate in the exhibition performance, and cross-country skier Savely Korostylev was not permitted to file a protest when a French athlete cut the course, affecting medal distribution. Fans also faced restrictions: Russian flags and banners in Russian were banned in the arena, forcing them to find alternative ways to express support — for example, writing inscriptions in Latin script or using kokoshniks.

Despite restrictions from organizers, most athletes do not feel conflict with colleagues. Petr Gumennik noted that fears of communication bans did not materialize. However, former Canadian national team forward and Hockey Hall of Famer Phil Esposito opined that the absence of full Russian participation makes the Olympics incomplete.