Omsk commentator who insulted Kazakhstani hockey players takes 'creative leave'

A commentator from Omsk who used foul language about Kazakhstani athletes has taken a 'creative leave'. It's unclear if he'll return to work soon.

Jan 30, 2026

The scandal involving the commentator«s remarks took place in early January.
Source:
Evgeny Sofiychuk/ NGS55.RU, «Maxim Grechanin» / vk.com

Omsk commentator Maxim Grechanin, who insulted Kazakhstani athletes, has taken a «creative leave». Channel 12«s General Director Artem Serov told NGS55.RU.

During the conversation, he did not give exact dates for when Grechanin would return to work, or if he would return at all.

«Maxim is on a creative leave, no details for now. Get in touch with Maxim,» Serov advised. However, the commentator did not answer the reporter«s call.

Last week, Grechanin did not comment on Omsk«s »Avangard« first home game of 2026. This caused outrage among fans.

Recall that the incident which led to a wave of condemnation against him happened in early January. At that time, the Omsk commentator«s speech, which used obscene language in reference to young hockey players, was picked up on the broadcast before the match between »Sibir« and »Astana«.