Russian figure skater Alena Kostornaya has not ruled out the possibility of changing her sports citizenship, noting there are several avenues to explore. The subject remains open, with no decisions made for the immediate future. Kostornaya emphasized that tomorrow could bring any outcome, and she is keeping options in view. [CITATION: RIA News]
Kostornaya competes in pair skating alongside Georgy Kunitsa, and the couple tied the knot on August 12. Earlier, Kostornaya shared that Kunitsa had proposed during a hot air balloon flight, a moment she described as unforgettable and romantic. [CITATION: RIA News]
The pair first skated together at a Russian national team test event in September, where they presented their first free program inspired by the soundtrack of the Hunger Games film. The moment marked a significant step in their partnership, blending dramatic music with synchronized routines and bold choreography. [CITATION: RIA News]
At the Grand Prix in Omsk, Kostornaya and Kunitsa finished in fourth place, while the event was won by Anastasia Mishina and Alexander Gallyamov, who topped the podium. [CITATION: RIA News]
In 2022, the International Olympic Committee advised international sports federations to suspend participation for domestic and Belarusian athletes in certain competitions, a decision that affected many skaters and teams around the world. [CITATION: IOC]
The Beijing Olympics held in 2022 concluded with penalties that prevented Russian figure skaters from taking part in international events for a time, shaping careers and competitive calendars for the sport’s athletes. [CITATION: IOC]
Previously Kostornaya expressed a critical view of the sport, describing figure skating as being in need of renewal and reform to restore its health and appeal for athletes and fans alike. [CITATION: RIA News]