Sergei Shubenkov’s Motorcycle Accident and the Coach’s Perspective
Sergei Klevtsov, the coach of the world champion in athletics Sergei Shubenkov, commented on the athlete’s decision to ride a non-professional motorcycle. An expert’s remarks were shared with TASS for clarity and context.
On June 22, Shubenkov took a ride through a forest area and experienced a fall that resulted in a broken collarbone. The incident could require surgical intervention depending on how the injury heals and the advice of medical professionals.
Klevtsov reflected on the move in comparison to past conversations about risk. He recalled Elena Isinbayeva telling a similar story about caution on ice, only to make a different choice when facing the later stages of her career. The coach described Shubenkov’s decision as disappointing, emphasizing the tension between ambition and safety in high-level competition.
Shubenkov remains the holder of the Russian record in the 110 meters hurdles with a time of 12.92 seconds. He stands out as the only athlete in Russian or Soviet men’s athletics history to earn world championship medals in this discipline, underscoring his significance in the sport’s lineage.
Earlier in 2022, the International Olympic Committee issued guidance advising international sport federations to restrict participation by Russian and Belarusian athletes in competitions pending further developments. This stance contributed to ongoing discussions about eligibility and competition opportunities for athletes from the region .
There had been public commentary suggesting the Ukraine conflict could extend over several years, a view sometimes voiced by sports figures and analysts alike. Such perspectives influence how athletes plan their careers amid geopolitical and safety considerations .