Ethics ruling on Plushenko testimony to be announced in April
Irina Raber heads the ethics commission of the Russian Figure Skating Federation (FFKKR). She indicated that a decision on the testimony given by two-time Olympic champion Evgeni Plushenko will be announced in April, with official wording transmitted through the federation’s channels. The update originates from coverage by RIA Novosti Sports.
The Ethics Committee of the FFKKR has reviewed Plushenko’s statements and prepared recommendations for the FFKKR Executive Committee to consider. The committee’s role is to assess conduct and provide guidance, while the ultimate judgment rests with the broader board. This process ensures that the commission contributes its findings ahead of any formal resolution by the higher governing body.
According to the committee, it does not issue final punishments. Instead, it offers recommendations regarding individuals’ conduct. The final decision will be determined at the board meeting scheduled for April, after which the commission will present its findings and the board will determine the appropriate course of action. Following that, the executive board will communicate to reporters either on the federation’s website or through official comments.
This sequence comes after Plushenko expressed dissatisfaction with assessments of his athletes during the Russian Junior Championship. He indicated that his team might consider aligning with different teams or training environments if responses did not meet expectations. The situation has drawn responses from various quarters and has shaped ongoing discussions about team dynamics and development pathways for young skaters.
In the wake of Plushenko’s remarks, Fedchenko described some statements as blackmail and hysteria, while Plushenko Academy submitted a formal inquiry to the FFKKR concerning the remarks. The exchange underscores the sensitivity around coaching, junior results, and potential shifts in coaching affiliations among skaters and their groups.
On the competitive side, Alina Gorbacheva, who trained with Fedchenko, secured first place at the Russian Junior Championships. The runners-up were Plushenko’s trainees Veronika Zhilina and Sofia Titova, who finished second and third respectively. The results highlight the ongoing talent pool under various coaching influences and the evolving landscape for junior skaters in Russia.
Former Honored Coach of the USSR Tatyana Tarasova offered a perspective, noting that Plushenko did not fully grasp why penalties might be imposed. Her comments reflect the broader debate within the sport about accountability, coaching methods, and the responsibilities that accompany high-level coaching careers.