Three-time Olympic triple jump gold medallist Viktor Saneyev has died at the age of 76.
Saneyev represented the Soviet Union at the Games and took three consecutive triple jump golds at the 1968, 1972 and 1976 editions.
The Sokhumi-born athlete also took a controversial silver at the 1980 Moscow Games before retiring, while he triumphed twice at the outdoor European Championships in the event in 1969 and 1974.
European Athletics is very saddened to hear of the death of triple jump great Viktor Saneyev at the age of 77.
— European Athletics (@EuroAthletics) January 3, 2022
Saneyev won three Olympic titles in the event between 1968 and 1976 and also won the European title in 1969 and 1974.
RIP Viktor. pic.twitter.com/mjMY8eX6Rs
European Athletics paid tribute to Saneyev on social media, saying: "European Athletics is very saddened to hear of the death of triple jump great Viktor Saneyev at the age of 77.
"Saneyev won three Olympic titles in the event between 1968 and 1976 and also won the European title in 1969 and 1974. RIP Viktor."
Saneyev moved to Australia following his retirement as an athlete and worked in teaching and coaching before his death.
Ben Knapton
