Choreographer Ilya Averbukh confirmed that figure skater Roman Kostomarov is slated to appear at the gala in Moscow on December 17. The event, organized by Sports Express, is billed as a moment where Kostomarov will be present in a meaningful way, even if his participation on the ice remains uncertain.
Averbukh emphasized the significance of the appearance for Kostomarov and his family. “Roma will be there on December 17. I won’t say he will skate on the ice,” the choreographer explained. “But the audience will see him. That is very important to me. Roma and his wife, Oksana Domnina, are close friends of mine.”
Roman Kostomarov’s health saga began at the start of 2023, when he was hospitalized after New Year’s performances at an outdoor show. Reports described him as being in intensive care due to pneumonia and requiring a ventilator, with doctors describing his condition as critically serious. He subsequently received treatment at Kommunarka, where he faced severe complications that affected multiple limbs. In the months that followed, parts of both arms and legs were amputated as part of his medical recovery. By early July, Kostomarov had been discharged from the hospital and began moving forward with his rehabilitation.
Kostomarov rose to prominence as the champion of the 2006 Olympic Games. He later earned an Olympic gold medal in ice dancing with his partner, Tatiana Navka, cementing his place in skating history.
The public story continued to unfold through Kostomarov’s personal life, including remarks from his ex-wife about how he has managed to persevere and rebuild his life after the injuries and recovery period. The narrative surrounding Kostomarov’s resilience has been a source of inspiration for fans and fellow athletes alike, underscoring the enduring power of sport to rally around those who face unimaginable challenges.
As the Moscow gala approaches, fans and practitioners in the skating community watch closely to see how Kostomarov will be represented and celebrated, while honoring his extraordinary journey. The event itself is framed as a tribute to perseverance, a reminder of the fragility and strength intertwined in athletic careers, and a testament to the life led beyond competition. Source notes from the coverage emphasize the emotional resonance of Kostomarov’s presence and the enduring support of his inner circle. Source: Sports Express