Ukrainian weightlifter Oleksandr Pielieshenko, a two-time European champion who participated in the Rio Olympics, tragically lost his life at the front while defending his country. Pielieshenko, aged 30, had achieved fourth place in the 85 kg category in Rio in 2016. However, his career was halted in 2018 after testing positive for a masking agent.
The Ukrainian Weightlifting Federation expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the esteemed sportsman, noting that Pielieshenko’s 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. The athlete had enlisted in the Ukrainian armed forces at the onset of the Russian offensive in February 2022.
The tragic news of Pielieshenko’s passing sent shockwaves through the sports community, with many expressing their condolences and paying tribute to his legacy. His dedication to both weightlifting and his country will always be remembered.