Eteri Tutberidze stands as arguably the most successful figure skating coach of the past decade, widely known for a quiet presence in the press and on social media. Yet in recent weeks the renowned mentor has issued three notable statements in quick succession.
First, he spoke harshly about an American journalist, then directed sharp remarks toward Russian media, and finally urged the International Skating Union (ISU) not to update rankings or hold title events until Russian skaters can compete again. The tone and timing of these comments drew considerable attention, eclipsing many other news items surrounding the sport.
Initially, the first two developments dominated coverage, while the coach remained largely silent on the evolving situation in some quarters. Consequently, domestic skaters faced suspensions on March 1, and Tutberidze’s public comments did not surface again until August 1. Reports later indicated that plans to relocate Dave Liz to the United States were being questioned within two weeks of the coach’s earlier statements.
Meanwhile, attention turned to Russian media. Tutberidze has publicly engaged with Match TV and Sports.ru, and some observers speculate that his recent travels to the United States, including a third trip in a short period, may have fed his dissatisfaction. Match TV noted on August 3 that the specialist from Khrustalny was not training on the rink at the start of the week. By August 4, a video appeared on social media showing him coaching his skaters in practice.
At the same time, he published a written critique that compared media coverage to fecal matter, mirroring the earlier incident involving Dave Leese. Match TV and Sports.ru have long faced criticisms from Tutberidze, who suggested that their headlines could be inflammatory and distracting from real issues. He also posted a hashtag signaling persistence and resilience in the face of pressure.
What motivates the usually reserved coach to voice so many strong opinions now? There are several significant concerns that seem to be driving this conduct, touching on trust, competition, and the longer-term prospects for the sport in Russia.
1. Allegations about leaving Russia for the United States
Tutberidze took a lengthy vacation in America, during which skaters trained without him at Novogorsk. He then made two additional trips within a short span as the team prepared for the upcoming season. The backdrop to these moves involves an American journalist and a coach who continues to work in the United States, along with a Russian skater in the national team, in a context where Russians face broader suspensions from international events.
2. Doping concerns surrounding Valieva
The doping case involving Valieva cast a shadow over Tutberidze’s reputation during the Olympic year, with trace amounts of a banned substance reported. Even months after the public disclosure, many questioned whether accountability lay more with the athlete or the coaching environment surrounding her development. Prominent voices, including former Olympic champions, highlighted the pressure and the scrutiny faced by young athletes in the sport.
Responses from peers and rivals on social media reflected the fracturing of support and the lingering debate over who bears responsibility for safeguarding young competitors. The broader discussion about fairness in judging and competition underscored how doping accusations can impact the perceived legitimacy of a coach’s program. The ensuing controversy raised questions about how the sport should balance rigorous oversight with the mentoring that athletes need.
The issue resonated beyond the immediate case, inviting reflection on how national teams are evaluated when accusations arise and how leadership is perceived when results are weighed against integrity concerns.
3. Uncertainty about the future of Russian figure skating
On social media, Tutberidze described his mission as coaching “for life,” a phrase implying lasting commitment. Yet the current climate has cast doubt on when or if this mission can be fulfilled within Russia. Russian skaters face suspensions from international events, and the ISU has restricted quotas for world championships. Preparing athletes for national and international competitions remains challenging, given the geopolitical and organizational constraints.
The longer this uncertainty persists, the harder it becomes to maintain motivation and the rigorous routines required for top-tier training in a sport known for its physical and mental demands. In response to the situation, Tutberidze urged the ISU to withhold medals and update ratings until athletes from Russia can compete again, a stance that drew quick feedback from the international skating community.
Responses from ISU representatives suggested that such pleas are unlikely to gain traction, and some observers viewed them as expressions aimed more at domestic audiences than at the global stage. While recent developments did affect Tutberidze’s standing, they did not erase the recognition he previously earned as a leading figure in the sport.
Tutberidze’s private vulnerability
Former pupil Viktor Adoniev, now a coach in Tutberidze’s circle, described the mentor as someone who appears iron-willed but remains deeply sensitive to criticism. He noted that Tutberidze follows every commentary closely and worries about the broader implications of public remarks. It is also known that Tutberidze has privately voiced concerns to journalists about coverage and materials related to her work.