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Picture Credit: Reuters

Amid the ongoing state of war in Europe, all the sports governing bodies have taken some stern actions, especially against the Russians. While few football clubs have terminated the sponsorship deals with Russian firms, the future of people like Roman Abramovich (Chelsea's owner) and Nikita Mazepin (Haas F1 driver) has also been put under scanner.

And now, the International Judo Federation have also taken a massive step by removing Mr. Vladimir Putin from the position of Honorary President and Ambassador of IJF.

IJF ends 14-year-long association with Putin

"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," the federation confirmed in an official statement.

Notably, Putin is quite an accomplished judoka having been recipient of an eighth dan in 2014, which is regarded as one of the highest levels in the sport. He has been serving as the honorary president of IJF since 2008.

IJF president Marius Vizer had also hailed him back as the perfect ambassador for Judo 8 years back.  However, Putin's political actions against Ukraine have not gone down well with the federation who have now ended the long-term association with him.

IJF cancels 2022 Grand Slam slated to take place in Russia

Just a couple of days back, the International Judo Federation had also announced that the Judo 2022 Grand Slam, which was scheduled to happen in Kazan, Russia on May 20-22, has also been cancelled amid the ongoing state of war.

"We, the sports community, must remain united and strong, to support each other and our universal values, in order to always promote peace and friendship, harmony and unity," they had said in an official statement.