Russian lawmaker, 72, becomes oldest player in Russian Cup history
Mikhail Barishnikov, a St. Petersburg legislator, set a new record as the oldest footballer to play in the Russian Cup at age 72.
Mikhail Barishnikov, a 72-year-old legislator from St. Petersburg, has shattered the record for the oldest footballer to participate in the Russian Cup. The St. Petersburg Legislative Assembly member made history by becoming the oldest player ever to take part in the Russian Cup at the age of 72. Barishnikov kicked off as captain for Dynamo St. Petersburg in a match against FC 10 during the second round of the regional stage, but he left the field just five minutes after the match started.
Breaking the previous record set by Alexander Medvedev, the former Zenit chairman, who reportedly played for Amkal at the age of 70 and was on the pitch for 23 minutes against Salyut Belgorod. It seems there was an error in the original report, as the date mentioned (September 2025) is actually in the future according to current timelines.
Barishnikov's athletic pursuits extend beyond football; he also plays for veterans' football and hockey teams at the Petergof Club.
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