Minister of Education and Science Discusses Ski Athlete Penalized for Covering 'Azerbaijan' on Uniform

Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport Zhanna Andreasyan announced at a press conference that sports should remain within the realm of sports, and it is important to maintain fairness and all rules of honest competition as much as possible during competitions. She mentioned that the ministry is aware of the situation that occurred during the Italian Tour de Ski event, where the word 'Azerbaijan' was covered with adhesive tape on the uniform of an Armenian athlete.

According to the minister, the ministry has sent a written inquiry to the Armenian Federation to clarify the situation in more detail. She emphasized that after receiving clarification, they will understand the appropriateness of taking further steps.

“Our country has initiated the ratification of several important international conventions in this direction. I find it crucial that all these rules are first and foremost upheld by all participating parties. We have approached the Armenian Federation to understand what level of penalty is being discussed and whether disqualification may be considered or not. Based on that response, we will determine our actions,” stated Zhanna Andreasyan.