By Duncan Mackay

Kazan 2013 logoMay 21 - Russian gold medallists at this year's Universiade in Kazan will be given a cash bonus of $5,400 (£3,500/€4,100), the Government have announced.


Silver medallists will earn $2,600 (£1,680/€1,980) and bronze medallists $1,600 (£1,040/€1,200), according to a decree signed by Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev. 

The money is being put up by Russia's Sports Ministry and the Russian Students Sports Union

Russia's team, which is expected to be more than 650, is targeting finishing top of the medals table in Kazan, which is due to start on July 6 and last until July 17. 

At the last Games, in Shenzhen two years ago, Russia finished second overall with a total of 132 medals, 42 of them gold. 

But they have a big gap too make up on China, who finished top with 145 medals, 75 of them gold. 

In addition to prizes for athletes, the Government will give the coaches of gold medal-winning athletes $2,500 (£1,200/€1,900).

Silver medal coaches will receive $1,200 (£775/€900) and bronze medal trainers $800 (£520/€600).

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]