As nations gear up for the Olympic Games in Paris, Cyprus is embroiled in controversy over one of its flag bearers, high jumper Elena Kulichenko. An exclusive report from eReportaz has revealed that Kulichenko allegedly has n*de videos on the platform OnlyFans, sparking widespread debate and concern.
Elena Kulichenko OnlyFans
Milan Trajkovic and Elena Kulichenko were recently named as Cyprus’s flag bearers for the upcoming Olympics. Kulichenko, the daughter of a Russian oligarch and a naturalized Cypriot citizen, has become the center of attention—not for her athletic prowess but for her purported online activities.
During the Olympic team presentation, President of the Cyprus Olympic Committee, Mr. Y. Chrysostomou, emphasized the significance of the occasion, stating that the athletes “will raise the flag of our small and occupied homeland high.” Head of Mission Mr. G. Ioannidis echoed this sentiment, highlighting the goal of dignified representation and promotion of Cyprus.
Historic gold medal for Cyprus! 🇨🇾🥇
Elena Kulichenko wins Cyprus’ first ever European U23 gold medal with victory in the high jump in #Espoo2023! pic.twitter.com/Vfy7K4fV8b
— European Athletics (@EuroAthletics) July 16, 2023
However, the celebrations were overshadowed by the eReportaz investigation, which disclosed that the Cyprus Olympic Committee (COC) was aware of Kulichenko’s OnlyFans account but had failed to address the issue adequately. Sources indicate that the COC asked Kulichenko to close her account, but she refused.
The revelations have prompted serious ethical questions regarding Kulichenko’s suitability as a flag bearer. Critics argue that the COC’s oversight in vetting its athletes thoroughly reflects poorly on its responsibility to uphold the nation’s values and image on the global stage.
Dr. Athina Michaelidou, Minister of Education, Sport, and Youth (MESY), inadvertently added to the controversy with her remarks at the team presentation. She praised the athletes as “healthy role models” and “ambassadors of the high ideals of sport,” a stark contrast to the ethical concerns raised by Kulichenko’s alleged online activities.
In response to the allegations, Kulichenko’s lawyers have claimed that the videos in question are not of her but are the result of artificial intelligence (AI) manipulation. Despite this claim, questions remain as to why no legal action has been taken to remove the videos, nor has any formal complaint been filed with the Cyprus Police.
Kulichenko’s background adds another layer of complexity to the controversy. Born in Odintsovo, Russia, she obtained Cypriot citizenship in 2019 and has since represented Cyprus in international competitions. Her performance at the Budapest World Athletics Championship and her recent gold medal at the European Youth Championships in Espoo, Finland, have brought her significant acclaim.
Yet, the current scandal threatens to overshadow her athletic achievements. The Cypriot news website eReportaz argues that Kulichenko’s actions contradict the high ideals of sport that she is supposed to represent.
As the Olympic Games approach, the Cyprus Olympic Committee faces mounting pressure to address the situation transparently. The committee’s decision to allow Kulichenko to continue as a flag bearer, despite the ongoing controversy, has divided public opinion and raised doubts about its commitment to ethical standards.
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The unfolding situation underscores the challenges and responsibilities of national sporting bodies in the digital age. As the story develops, the global sporting community will be watching closely to see how Cyprus navigates this sensitive issue.
Our thoughts are with the Cypriot athletes as they prepare for the Olympics amidst this unexpected controversy.