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Former Russian footballer Alexei Bugaev dies in Ukraine war

30. December 2024
(foto: Getty Images)
Alexei Bugaev, a former Russian international footballer, has tragically lost his life in the Ukraine war.

Bugaev’s journey from a promising football career to a troubled and ultimately tragic end is a stark reminder of the challenges athletes can face after leaving the spotlight.

Bugaev retired from professional football in 2010 at just 29 years old after playing for clubs such as Torpedo Moscow, Lokomotiv Moscow, and Khimki. He was also part of the Russian national team squad at Euro 2004. However, his career ended amidst personal struggles, as he openly admitted to battling alcohol addiction.

Rather than addressing his issues, Bugaev’s problems deepened. He became involved in criminal activities, including drug-related offenses, and earlier this year, he was sentenced to nine and a half years in prison for drug trafficking.

While serving his sentence, Bugaev enlisted in the Russian army under a program that offers early release for inmates who join the military. He was deployed to the war zone in Ukraine, where he ultimately lost his life. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which began in 2022, continues to be one of the most destructive conflicts in modern history.

Bugaev’s story is a tragic one, highlighting the difficulties of life after football and the dangers of unresolved personal struggles.

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