Former Moscow Spartak and Soviet national team footballer Yuri Gavrilov has revealed that he receives a pension of approximately 50,000 rubles, admitting that it would be difficult to live on state payments alone.
Speaking to Russian sports outlet Sport24, the former midfielder explained that rising prices have made living on a fixed retirement income challenging. He said that he relies on additional financial assistance from his children as well as occasional support from Spartak Moscow to cover his daily expenses.
Gavrilov pointed out that consumer prices are constantly rising while state pension payouts remain unchanged. He stated that surviving strictly on his monthly pension would be hard without the extra help provided by his family members and former club.
Pension details and living costs
Gavrilov is widely celebrated as one of the premier playmakers in Soviet football history. He represented Spartak Moscow from 1977 to 1985, serving as an influential figure in the team's midfield during a prominent period for the club.
During his eight seasons with the Moscow team, Gavrilov won the Soviet Top League championship twice. His performances for Spartak also earned him a regular place in the national team of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.
Debate over retirement income in Russia
Gavrilov's comments regarding his retirement income follow earlier remarks by Irina Rodnina, a deputy in the State Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament. Rodnina, a three time Olympic figure skating champion, stated that Russian citizens need to become independent when preparing for their future pensions.
Rodnina noted that a pension should not be viewed as a salary, describing it instead as an old age allowance. Her statements drew public attention to the financial realities facing retirees and former professional athletes across the country.
Support for former athletes
For many veteran sports figures who competed during the Soviet era, retirement financial security involves a combination of state pensions, personal support, and assistance from sports institutions. While state pensions offer a baseline, major football clubs like Spartak Moscow occasionally step in to assist former players who contributed to their historic achievements.
