The Commission for Combating Illegal Influence on Competition Results at the Russian Volleyball Federation (VFV) has launched an investigation involving six volleyball players. Among them is Vasily Molotkov, who currently plays for the Bulgarian VC Montana. This is according to the authoritative Russian website BO Sport.

The VFV investigation

According to the official announcement, the VFV will investigate possible match-fixing, including potential involvement in betting, as part of a large-scale review covering 50 entities in Russian volleyball. This includes players from the Youth League, Major League B, Major League A, and the Super League. The results of the investigation are expected to be published by May 15.

Among the summoned players are:

• Vasily Molotkov (plays for VC Montana, owned by Lokomotiv Novosibirsk)

• Kirill Vlasov (Lokomotiv Novosibirsk, transferred to Libyan Misurata)

• Alexander Goryaniy (Dynamo Chelyabinsk)

• Kirill Semakov (Zenit-UOR)

• Dmitry Kazakov (IzhGTU-Dynamo)

• Daniil Zavolzhsky (Dynamo-Ural)

Molotkov – a key figure for Montana

Molotkov's presence on the list caused a stir in Bulgarian volleyball circles. The 20-year-old opposite joined VC Montana in the summer of 2024 on loan from Russian Lokomotiv Novosibirsk. He quickly established himself as a key scorer for the team and impressed with his incredible performances in the championship.

In the first 12 rounds of efbet Super Volley, Molotkov topped the scoring charts with 270 points and a 50% attack efficiency. His performance was described as crucial for Montana's ambitions in the championship.

What's next?

It is not yet clear if and how the investigation will affect Molotkov's career in Bulgaria. If involvement in illicit activities is proven, he could face serious sanctions, including a penalty from the VFV, a ban from international competitions, and a possible termination of his contract with Montana.

VC Montana has not yet made an official statement on the matter. The Bulgarian Volleyball Federation has also not commented on whether any measures will be taken against the player.

The investigation will certainly continue to be followed with great interest in both Russia and Bulgaria, especially among Montana fans, who hope Molotkov will continue to shine on the volleyball stage.