Powerlifting Controversy: Sonita Muluh Claims Racially Motivated Disqualification Leaves Her Feeling Unsafe

A powerlifter from Belgium, Sonita Muluh, has alleged that she was subjected to a racially motivated act that resulted in her disqualification from a recent competition. Muluh stated that she “does not feel safe” while competing following the incident at the Powerlifting Championships in Lithuania in June.

Incident at the Championships

During her attempt to set a record with a 334.5 kg squat, Muluh faced an unexpected situation when Ernestas Kusinas, a spotter responsible for ensuring the safety and validity of the lift, touched the weights with his knee. This action led to her disqualification, with judges citing a separate technical infringement that prevented her from reattempting the lift.

Following the event, Kusinas made a controversial statement on Instagram, claiming, “I am racist, and I did it intentionally.” This prompted the Lithuanian police to initiate a criminal investigation into the matter, focusing on the implications of his social media post and the events surrounding the championship. The maximum penalty for such behavior could be two years in prison.

Reactions and Consequences

Kusinas later clarified that his Instagram comment was made in anger after being accused of racism by an unidentified user. He stated that it was not meant to be taken seriously but rather as a mockery of the accusation. In response to the incident, the Lithuanian Powerlifting Federation issued a lifetime ban against him, and his social media accounts have since been made private.

Muluh expressed her shock at the situation, stating, “It’s shocking to wake up five weeks later and it’s all over the internet that he did it on purpose because of the colour of my skin.” She conveyed her feelings of unease, emphasizing the dangers of having someone she perceives as a threat standing beside her while lifting heavy weights.

Initial Reactions and Reflections

Initially, Muluh refrained from blaming Kusinas, believing it to be a mistake. She noted that he did not reach out to apologize, but she did not harbor any hatred towards him. “I thought it was a human mistake that cost me a lot on the day,” she said. She had hoped for a more positive outcome, stating, “I believed it was an honest mistake.”

However, the revelation of Kusinas’ comments five weeks later changed her perspective. Muluh, 29, criticized the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) for what she perceived as a failure to protect her during the incident. She called for background checks on individuals involved in the sport, stating, “If you are going to put my life in someone else’s hands, at least make sure that person is well equipped to be able to protect me or keep me from harm.”

Concerns About Safety and Inclusion

Muluh expressed her concerns regarding the safety of athletes, particularly minorities, in the sport. She stated that the federation’s negligence put her life in danger and highlighted the need for better oversight. “Nobody spots like that, with their knee,” she remarked, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.

Reflecting on her experiences at the event, Muluh mentioned that she did not feel welcome in Lithuania. She described instances of disrespect, stating, “People looked down on us in Lithuania in a very disgusting way.” She noted that some black athletes face booing during competitions and that they must navigate their racial identity while competing.

Broader Implications for the Sport

Muluh highlighted the need for the IPF to take a more proactive stance against racism and discrimination in powerlifting. “Powerlifting has been a very supportive niche sport, so far. But who is standing up for athletes against racism?” she questioned, expressing disappointment over the lack of support from prominent figures in the sport.

Kusinas, in his defense, stated that he unintentionally interfered with Muluh’s lift due to fatigue from his responsibilities at the event.

In a statement, the IPF condemned racism and discrimination, asserting that such behavior has no place in the sport. They acknowledged the Lithuanian Powerlifting Federation’s swift action in banning Kusinas and committed to strengthening recruitment and oversight of volunteers at IPF events.

Conclusion

The Lithuanian Powerlifting Federation has taken responsibility for the situation, expressing shock at Kusinas’ public statements that contradict the principles of the sport. They reaffirmed their commitment to addressing the matter and ensuring a safe environment for all athletes.

As reported by www.bbc.co.uk.

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Published on 2026-08-05 18:32:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk