Warsaw, Poland – Władimir Semirunnij, the silver medalist in the 10,000-meter speed skating event at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, received a hero’s welcome upon his return to Poland on Monday evening. The 23-year-old athlete expressed his surprise at the large turnout of supporters who greeted him at Warsaw Chopin Airport, stating he had only expected a friend to assist with his luggage.
“I completely didn’t expect so many familiar faces to be waiting for me at the airport,” Semirunnij told Fakt. “I have the impression that the whole club came here for me. I only knew about my friend coming to help with my bags and organize the ride home. It turned out that my girlfriend, Klaudia, and the rest of my friends were also there. I was incredibly happy to observe them. I didn’t expect so many people to come and greet me.”
Semirunnij, who was born in Yekaterinburg, Russia, received Polish citizenship and now represents Poland in international competitions. He emphasized his strong connection to his adopted country, stating, “This is my home. I live in Tomaszów Mazowiecki, like most of my teammates. It’s great. I’m glad I can finally be back, given that I’ve been in Milan for a long time. I really wanted to come back. I experience at home here.”
The athlete also revealed that he maintains contact with friends still residing in Russia and reports receiving consistent support from them. “I talk to everyone. They all support me. I can say that I have very fine friends. I receive support from everyone, and I don’t experience any hate from them. I’m very happy to have such friends,” Semirunnij said to TVP, adding that he has extended invitations for them to visit him in Poland when possible.
Semirunnij’s success at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics has garnered significant attention, and he has indicated his intention to donate his silver medal to inspire future generations of Polish speed skaters. According to Eurosport, he suggested the medal could be displayed at a skating club or the Arena Lodowa in Tomaszów Mazowiecki, making it accessible to aspiring athletes. He served as the flag bearer for the Polish delegation during the closing ceremony of the games in Verona, a further honor following his athletic achievement.
The athlete’s decision to represent Poland has been met with some criticism from Ukrainian sources, as reported by Sport Wprost, though Semirunnij has consistently expressed gratitude for the support he has received in his new home. He has not publicly addressed the criticism directly.
