Russian social media has reacted angrily to videos showing two of the country's footballers partying extravagantly in Monaco just days after the national team crashed out of the UEFA EURO 2016 tournament.
Alexander Kokorin, 25, and Pavel Mamaev, 27, were filmed smoking hookah and drinking champagne as the Russian national anthem played, sparklers sparkled and confetti flew in an exclusive Monte Carlo nightclub. According to reports, they ran up a staggering drinks bill of 250,000 euros ($276,000).
Kokorin and Markin faced public condemnation after their indulgent evening became known.
The pair's antics were a double insult to fans who had suffered through the team's abject failures on the field: "Spitting in the face of the supporters. Part 2."
State Duma deputy Nikolai Valuyev vented on Twitter: "Mamaev and Kokorin will be remembered for their miserable performances at EURO 2016 and the champagne. The spillage could have payed for a Russian's pension."
"Kokorin and Mamaev return from the nightclub full of remorse."
Some drew comparisons with the wholesomeness of Russia's past sporting greats like legendary goalkeeper Lev Yashin, saying, "give us back our football."
"Lev Yashin relaxing after winning the 1960 European Championship. Kokorin and Mamaev relaxing after elimination from the 2016 European Championship.
Some suggested that such scenes might inspire youngsters to play the game: "Seeing the parties the players go to, every schoolboy will be taking up football."
The Russian public was generally unimpressed. "There are guys in the park who drink more but they're actually better at football."
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
