Pussy Riot Claims Responsibility for Pitch Invasion During World Cup Final as Political Protest
In the World Cup final held on July 15, 2018, which featured France and Croatia, a protest unfolded as members of the Russian activist group Pussy Riot stormed the field dressed as police. One activist even managed to high-five French star Kylian Mbappé before security intervened. They labeled their stunt 'Policeman enters the Game' on Facebook, highlighting issues like political prisoners in Russia. Their list of six demands included calls for releasing these prisoners, stopping arrests over social media activity, and allowing political competition. Russian officials warned that the protesters could face fines up to 200,000 rubles (£2,400) or community service totaling 160 hours, as noted by The Guardian.
Key facts
- Pussy Riot claimed responsibility for invading the pitch during the France-Croatia World Cup final
- Protesters dressed as Russian police officers and one high-fived French player Kylian Mbappé
- The action was titled 'Policeman enters the Game' and protested Russia's political prisoners
- Six demands were listed, including freeing political prisoners and stopping illegal arrests
- Protesters face up to 200,000 rubles (£2,400) in fines or 160 hours of community service
- The event was reported by The Guardian on July 16, 2018
- Statements were released on Facebook following the demonstration
- Security chased the invaders off the field
Entities
Artists
- Pussy Riot
- Kylian Mbappé
Institutions
- The Guardian
- Russian police
Locations
- Russia
- France
- Croatia