Russian lawmaker, 72, becomes oldest player in Russian Cup history

Mikhail Barishnikov, a member of the St. Petersburg Legislative Assembly, made history by becoming the oldest player ever to participate in the Russian Cup at the age of 72.

According to Russia Today, Barishnikov started as captain for Dynamo St. Petersburg in their match against FC 10 in the second round of the regional stage of the tournament, but left the field just five minutes after kickoff.

Barishnikov broke the previous record held by Alexander Medvedev, the former chairman of Zenit, who reportedly played for Amkal in September 2025 at the age of 70, spending 23 minutes on the pitch against Salyut Belgorod. (The date appears to be an error in the original report, as it is in the future.)

Barishnikov's sporting activities are not limited to football; he also plays for the veterans' football and hockey teams at Petergof Club.