Russian gymnast investigated for wearing pro-war symbol on podium next to Ukrainian

Ivan Kuliak is being investigated for wearing a national war symbol on his leotard as he stood next to a Ukrainian competitor on the podium.

The International Gymnastics Federation said it had openedDisciplinary proceedings against Kuliak for his shocking behavior at the Apparatus World Cup.

Kuliak taped a letter "Z" on to his chest and took to the podium next to the gold medal winner Illia Kovtun of Ukraine.

The letter Z has become a symbol of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and has been painted on the side of tanks and military vehicles.

This weekend was the last chance for Russian and Belarusian gymnasts to compete after their countries were punished by the FIG for Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Russian and Belarusian athletes, officials and judges will not be allowed to participate in any competition from Monday.