The event in question occurred on 27 July, during a closely contested match against Egyptian athlete Mohamed Amer. Following this defeat, Sandro Bazadze and his father made several public statements filled with accusations against the FIE, including claims of corruption and questioning the professionalism of referees. Merab Bazadze has since sought to clarify these remarks, attributing them to the psychological shock and intense emotional strain his son faced following the match.

In his statement, Merab Bazadze expressed profound regret for the remarks made in the heat of the moment. He emphasised that the emotional turmoil following such a significant loss can lead athletes and their families to make statements that do not reflect their true beliefs or the reality of the situation. “Sandro Bazadze is an outstanding athlete who has consistently achieved high rankings in the FIE,” he noted, highlighting that his son’s prior successes are a testament to the professionalism and integrity of the FIE and its referees.

The president highlighted the efforts of the FIE in promoting transparency and fairness in refereeing through advanced technologies such as video arbitration systems and an automated selection process for referees. These innovations were described as critical steps toward ensuring that officiating is fair and unbiased in international fencing competitions.

In response to the media discourse surrounding the incident, Merab Bazadze urged journalists and bloggers to refrain from using this emotional episode to attack the FIE and its leadership unjustly. He noted that the integrity of fencing as a sport relies on adherence to its principles, which emphasize honesty and honor. “Fencing is a noble sport based on adherence to a code of rules, and it is essential for all involved to respect and uphold these principles,” he asserted.

This incident has sparked significant media attention and public discussion, with various outlets speculating on the motivations behind the Bazadze family’s remarks. Merab Bazadze’s plea for unity and integrity within the sport serves as a reminder of the pressures athletes face and the importance of maintaining respect for the institutions that govern their sport.

In closing, Merab Bazadze reaffirmed his commitment to the principles of fair play and respect in fencing, emphasising the need for athletes, officials, and fans alike to work together to protect the integrity of the sport they cherish. As the fencing community moves forward from this incident, it is essential to recognise the challenges that come with competition at the highest levels and to foster an environment of support and understanding for athletes and their families during such intense moments.