Soldier takes olympian’s flat in shock housing reversal
Russian Olympic athlete Darja Kliszyna has lost the right to an apartment in her hometown of Tver after local authorities reassigned the property to a member of the military. The case, first reported by Polish outlet o2, has sparked debate over how state-backed benefits for athletes are enforced.
How the dispute began
According to o2, the apartment was granted to Darja Kliszyna in 2011 under a program designed to support accomplished athletes. The arrangement reportedly included conditions, the property would become her permanent possession if she met certain sporting benchmarks, such as competing at the Olympic Games or winning a medal at major international competitions.
Kliszyna has said she sought legal advice at the time and believed she had satisfied the requirements for ownership.
However, officials cited her lack of sporting activity within Russia as a factor in the decision to reassign the flat. Kliszyna has trained in the United States since 2013, building much of her professional career abroad.
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Political reaction in Moscow
The situation gained wider attention after State Duma deputy Svetlana Zhurova commented publicly. As reported by o2, Zhurova defended the regulations and suggested the athlete may not have fulfilled all necessary obligations. She raised the possibility of unpaid utility bills, taxes, or administrative issues related to the property.
There has been no public evidence presented confirming those claims, and it remains unclear which specific rule formed the legal basis for the reassignment.
Kliszyna speaks out
Darja Kliszyna has criticized the move, saying the decision was taken suddenly and without her knowledge. In comments cited by o2, she said she is now being described as homeless and that she does not have residency permission, describing the personal strain the situation has caused.
Kliszyna represented Russia at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio De Janeiro, where she finished ninth in the long jump. Over the course of her career, she has competed internationally while training primarily outside Russia.
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Broader questions about athlete benefits
The dispute has prompted discussion inside Russia about how housing incentives for elite athletes are administered, particularly when recipients live or train overseas. The case also highlights the broader scrutiny of state support programs at a time when public resources are under pressure.
Whether Darja Kliszyna will challenge the decision or seek legal remedy remains unclear.
Sources: o2
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