Gloucester remove Russian flag off player’s jersey after social media outrage
Kirill Gotovtsev in action for Gloucester.
Gloucester have confirmed they will remove the Russian flag displayed on prop Kirill Gotovtsev’s jersey following backlash on social media, and will also remove all flags on jerseys for this weekend’s clash with the Scarlets.
After making his debut in 2015, the 37-year-old prop has won 19 Test caps for Russia during his career before World Rugby imposed sanctions on the nation in 2022.
Gloucester to remove flags from jerseys
A club statement issued today read: “Gloucester Rugby is acutely aware of the social media discussion regarding the national flag of Kirill Gotovtsev appearing on his home shirt during Saturday’s Premiership fixture vs Sale.”
“We remain entirely supportive of World Rugby’s 2022 sanction regarding the conflict in Ukraine. Kirill fully co-operated with the requirements of World Rugby, and DCMS, at that time and continues to do so.”
It added: “Following further internal discussion and with Kirill’s blessing, the Club has decided to continue to recognise those who have caps for their country on Gloucester Rugby Premiership jerseys – as has been the case since 2015.
“Kirill’s national flag will not appear on his shirt. We understand the connotations of the flag in question and apologise for any offence this may have caused.
“Finally, the Club is aware of ongoing commentary regarding this matter and would like to express its deep distain for all forms of racism, and any individual expressing those views will not be welcome at Kingsholm.”
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“For the avoidance of doubt, in line with all European games this season, the flags will not appear on the shirts this weekend.”
“Gloucester Rugby will make no further comment.”
The Cherry and Whites now turn their attention to a pivotal Challenge Cup clash with the Scarlets.
However, they come into the match in good form, winning three of their past five games in all competitions including a resounding 36-20 win over Sale Sharks last weekend.
Gloucester currently sit fifth in pool three of the Challenge Cup, but are two points behind Edinburgh, Scarlets and Vannes – who are all on six points.