On 13 February 2020, the famous Soviet referee Valery Pavlovich Butenko died at the age of 78.

Valery Pavlovich was awarded a commemorative gold medal for serving more than 100 matches, and was named 13 times in the top 10 referees of the season. In 1981, he became a FIFA international referee.

Butenko presided over 50 international matches for national and club teams. He worked at the FIFA World Cups in 1986 and 1990, as well as the European Championships in 1984 and 1988.

The Russian Premier Liga expresses its deep and sincere condolences to the family and friends of Valery Pavlovich. In this difficult hour, we are with you.