"I am grateful to the international fencing family for their trust and support, which convinced me that my decision to run for the FIE presidency is the right one," Usmanov said in a statement. "I want to assure everyone of a bright future for fencing and its dynamic development. I will do everything in my power to achieve this, despite the recent attempts to vilify and slander our beloved sport and turn it into an arena for some decidedly unsportsmanlike battles."
Despite being sanctioned in nearly 40 countries, Usmanov was reelected with 120 votes compared to his challenger's 26. This demonstrates his significant influence and financial backing in the sport.
The FIE's ethics committee was investigating Usmanov's candidacy due to the sanctions against him, raising questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the future governance of the federation.
Usmanov suspended himself from his role in March 2022 following sanctions due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, but his reelection signals his enduring power and connections within the international fencing community.
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