Ukrainian weightlifter Oleksandr Pielieshenko, a two-time European champion who had competed in the Rio Olympics, tragically lost his life at the front. The news was announced by the Ukrainian Weightlifting Federation on Monday. Pielieshenko, aged 30, had achieved fourth place in the 85 kg category in Rio in 2016. However, his career came to an end in 2018 when he tested positive for a masking agent.
In a statement, the Federation expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the esteemed sportsman, noting that his heart had ceased to beat. Ukrainian weightlifting team coach Victor Slobodianiuk also took to Facebook to honor the athlete, describing him as a hero who died while defending Ukraine. It was revealed that Pielieshenko had enlisted in the Ukrainian armed forces at the beginning of the Russian offensive in February 2022.
The tragic news of Pielieshenko’s passing sent shockwaves through the sports community. Many people paid tribute to his legacy and expressed their condolences. His dedication to both weightlifting and his country will always be remembered.
