Oleg Verniaiev, the reigning Olympic parallel bars champion and silver all-around medalist, is provisionally suspended by the International Gymnastics Federations. This was confirmed by the federation’s media representative in response to Gymnovosti’s request for comment.
According to FIG,
“[…] Oleg Verniaiev is provisionally suspended until the end of the procedure that is currently in progress. The FIG will not comment on an ongoing procedure.”
At the moment, it is not clear what is the reason for suspension. Verniaiev has not so far commented on the situation. There is also no information on how long the procedure will take place and when the final decision will be made. Verniaiev hoped to compete at the AA World Cup series in an attempt to win an extra Olympic spot for Ukraine. He is also, of course, necessary for the Ukrainian team at the Olympic Games.
The suspension was likely the reason Verniaiev withdrew from the 2020 MAG European Championships, as his FIG license was listed as suspended already on 11th of December (the competition ran from 9th to 13th of December). However, the national team’s coach Gennady Sartynsky listed injuries and upcoming PhD defense as the official reason for the withdrawal. Verniaiev has not commented on the withdrawal from Euros either.
I commend the author for not speculating. Thank you for reporting only known facts!