Natalia Tsylynskaya, the Sports Director of "MINSK" Cycling Club and the Belarusian Cycling Federation (BCF), has come under heavy criticism for her involvement in supporting President Alexander Lukashenko following the harsh suppression of the 2020 nationwide protests in Belarus.

Tsylynskaya has signed an open letter alongside other sports figures in the country, expressing their backing for Lukashenko amidst the widespread protests and civil unrest. This public endorsement has sparked outrage both domestically and internationally, as many view it as an endorsement of the government's actions, which have been widely condemned for human rights violations.

As a prominent figure in the Belarusian sports community, Tsylynskaya's association with the letter has raised concerns about her stance on human rights, democracy, and the principles of fair play, which are fundamental values in sports. Calls for accountability and consequences for such actions are growing among sports enthusiasts, organizations, and human rights advocates, who firmly stand against any support for repressive measures that suppress civil liberties.

The incident has prompted discussions about the responsibility of sports personalities to remain politically neutral and refrain from endorsing actions that could be perceived as undermining the democratic rights of individuals. The sports community emphasizes the importance of upholding the integrity of sports and preserving its role as a unifying force, free from divisive political affiliations.