The weightlifting community mourns the loss of Oleksandr Pielieshenko, a former Olympian who represented Ukraine at the Rio 2016 Olympics and tragically lost his life during the conflict with Russia. Pielieshenko, a two-time European champion, made the courageous decision to join the armed forces following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, as confirmed by the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine.
Viktor Slobodianiuk, a weightlifting coach and board member of the Ukrainian Weightlifting Federation (UWF), paid tribute to Pielieshenko, emphasizing the profound impact of war and hailing him as a hero whose legacy will endure. The UWF disclosed that Pielieshenko passed away while serving on the front line, underscoring the sacrifices made by individuals amid the ongoing conflict.
Pielieshenko, who competed in the 85kg category at the Rio Games, achieved a notable fourth-place ranking and clinched gold at the European championships in both 2016 and 2017, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. Despite his successes, Pielieshenko faced adversity when he was banned from competition after failing a drugs test in 2018, tarnishing his reputation and career.
In a poignant statement on Facebook, the UWF announced Pielieshenko’s passing with deep sorrow, extending heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. The untimely death of Oleksandr Pielieshenko serves as a somber reminder of the human cost of conflict and underscores the enduring impact of his contributions to the weightlifting community and his country.
