Alena Leonova, a silver medalist at the 2012 World Figure Skating Championships, spoke in an interview on the program Sports every day about Kamila Valieva. Leonova suggested that Valieva could regain her competitive form in a short period and might resume training after a brief break. He emphasized that the essential ingredient would be the athlete’s own determination and willpower.
According to him, the main question is whether Valieva truly desires to return to competition. If the motivation is strong, a quick comeback could be possible. Leonova added that the saying legs remember captures the idea that conditioning and muscle memory can help athletes bounce back faster. He believes Valieva could recover well at a high-quality training center with experienced coaches and medical staff guiding her progress.
On January 29, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled that Valieva had violated anti-doping regulations and imposed a four-year suspension that prevents participation in major competitions until December 2025. The decision marked a significant milestone in the ongoing discussion about doping rules, athlete rights, and the integrity of the sport.
CAS published its full reasoning on February 7. In its explanation, the Russian side contended that the banned substance entered Valieva’s system through a dessert prepared by her grandfather, a claim that sparked wide discussion about contamination risks and the responsibilities of surrounding supporters. As a consequence, Valieva was stripped of the gold medals she won at the Russian Championship and the European Championship, altering the historical record for those events.
Observers note that Valieva’s case has intensified debates about how young athletes should be protected in high-pressure environments, the handling of medical information, and the transparency of anti-doping processes. Supporters argue that the sport must balance fair enforcement with compassionate consideration of individual circumstances, while critics push for clearer safeguards to prevent similar situations in the future. In the broader context of international skating, the episode has prompted national federations to review youth training practices, medical oversight, and the communication strategies used when doping allegations surface.
It remains to be seen how Valieva will navigate the road back to competition. Some analysts speculate about potential short-term exhibition appearances or participation in junior-level events before attempting a return to senior-level championships. Others emphasize that the four-year ban is a substantial hurdle requiring sustained rehabilitation, consistent coaching, and careful planning to rebuild competitive form and public trust. Across the skating community, there is a consensus that, regardless of the outcome, Valieva’s case will continue to influence conversations about ethics, athlete welfare, and the role of families and trainers in a young athlete’s career.
In parallel, other athletes and coaches have highlighted the importance of resilience and mental preparation. The sport’s governing bodies are increasingly focused on ensuring that doping rules are clear, enforceable, and applied fairly, while also supporting athletes through rehabilitation and return-to-play processes. Skaters, trainers, and medical staff are working together to create pathways that prioritize long-term health and integrity without compromising competitive opportunities for determined competitors who honor the rules.
Ultimately, the trajectory of Valieva’s career will depend on multiple factors—physical readiness, mental readiness, and the ability to navigate the post-suspension landscape. The wider skating community watches closely, recognizing that each policy decision sends a signal about the sport’s values and its commitment to clean competition. As the story continues to unfold, it remains a focal point for ongoing discussions about fairness, accountability, and the future of figure skating on the world stage.