Serbian figure skating competitor Antonina Dubinina spoke about how athletes from Russia are viewed on the global stage and observed that those racing for medals seemed relieved by their absence. Her commentary sets a clear tone for current debates about participation and competition in major events, especially in relation to how nations respond to political contexts that affect sport. It is possible to interpret her remarks as signaling a desire for a balanced field where strategic rivalries still drive performance, even while political considerations shape who is allowed to compete and under what conditions.
“Yet Russian athletes, in general, are indeed missed by many fans and participants. The atmosphere is more electric when they are present, and the level of competition often intensifies the sport’s development. There is a feeling that resuming normal participation, including their return, could motivate all parties to raise their game,” Dubinina noted, reflecting a nuanced view of rivalry, unity, and progress across the skating community. Her assessment suggests that competition benefits the sport by pushing each nation to innovate, refine programs, and strive for higher standards, even as political borders complicate the calendar.
Dubinina, a Moscow native who began representing Serbia in the 2016/2017 season, has built a notable competitive résumé within her adopted national team. Across the Serbian national championships, the skater has captured gold on multiple occasions, underscoring her status as a leading figure in a country where the sport continues to grow its presence on the world stage. The journey from athlete to national champion in a new sporting home often involves adapting training environments, coaches, and support networks, while preserving a signature style that resonates with judges and audiences alike.
In February 2022, the International Olympic Committee issued guidance to international sports federations advising against the participation of certain domestic and Belarusian athletes in competitions due to the prevailing political situation. As a consequence, the International Skating Union placed Russian and Belarusian competitors under suspension, prompting discussions about eligibility and the timeline for reinstatement. The ISU council, which convened in Lausanne, was expected to revisit the issue and determine the criteria for potential readmission, balancing competitive fairness with broader geopolitical considerations.
The topic of Russia’s return has continued to surface in public discourse, with influential voices in the skating world weighing in on the conditions under which athletes might resume international competition. Former Olympic champions and current leaders in the sport have offered perspectives that emphasize both the importance of inclusive participation and the realities of political decisions that shape the schedule of events, sponsorships, and audience engagement. Across these conversations, the core theme remains: the sport seeks to maintain a high level of competition while navigating a complex global environment, where athletes strive to perform at their best in every event and fans seek to witness the strongest possible field. [Citation attribution: International Sports Governance updates and ISU statements, 2022 edition]