A newspaper recently asked me what new National Project I would propose.
I would propose one to help sportsmen integrate into society when their sporting careers are over. It’s no secret that we have lots and lots of sportsmen who can’t find a role for themselves once they stop performing. Not everyone can become a trainer, after all. So what are these people to do? I think we should give them the opportunity to choose another profession, And although it’s hard for them to imagine a life without sport, they’re still young and are perfectly capable of learning a new trade. But they definitely need help with this.
I’m pleased that I’m involved in such important and valuable work and that I’ve found a role in life after sport. But not everyone is so lucky. It’s not right when a sportsman who has stood on the pedestal and heard the Russian anthem played in his honour is suddenly no use to anyone at the age of 30-35. I’m sure a national project like this would not only help sportsmen to find their feet, but would also make people respect our country more, both at home and abroad.