The Minister of Sports and President of the ROC congratulated sports fans and supporters of an active lifestyle, as well as representatives of the Russian Olympic movement, on the national holiday.
- On behalf of the entire Russian sports community, I congratulate you on Russian National Flag Day.
As Russian President Vladimir Putin notes, the flag, along with the coat of arms and the anthem, symbolizes the sovereignty and independence of our country. It is the national symbols that link athletes’ victories to the country. This is especially important for us given Russia’s historical role in the revival of the Olympic movement and in sporting achievements since the late 19th century.
Since the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, Russia has won more than 2,000 Olympic medals and has become one of the few countries to have hosted both the Summer and Winter Games. For decades, our athletes have dominated in many disciplines and sports.
Today, the Russian flag is returning to the international sports arena once again. Since the beginning of 2026, the Russian tricolor has been raised at 41 world and European championships, cups, and competitions. Every day, more and more international sports federations are restoring to Russian athletes the opportunity to compete under national symbols.
I congratulate all our citizens, athletes, coaches, sports enthusiasts, and fans on Flag Day. I wish you faith, hope, and love, because love for Russia and for sports is what unites us!
