An interview with NHK features Russia’s acclaimed figure skating coach Eteri Tutberidze discussing the future of Russian athletes on the international stage. In the dialogue, she expresses confidence that the current ban affecting Russian competitors will eventually be lifted, signaling a belief in a forthcoming return to global competitions.
Tutberidze emphasizes a hopeful stance. She explains that the doors have not been closed on Russia or its athletes. She notes uncertainty about the timeline but remains convinced that their participation will resume sooner or later. She frames the situation in terms of resilience and openness, suggesting that sharing what they have left to offer is part of their approach, even if the resources are modest. Her tone reflects patience and a readiness to meet the world again when opportunities arise, rather than dwelling on misfortune.
The broader context includes a significant move by international sports governance in early 2022. At the end of February 2022, the International Olympic Committee issued a recommendation to sport federations worldwide to bar athletes from Russia and Belarus from competing. In response, the International Skating Union suspended athletes from those countries, effectively removing them from events across disciplines until policy and sanctions evolved further. This sequence marked a pivotal moment in the sport’s political and ethical landscape and had a direct impact on athletes preparing for major championships.
Among the most high-profile participants affected was the Russian figure skating cohort. The last official debut by Russian skaters on the international stage before the ban occurred at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. During those Games, Tutberidze’s pupil Anna Shcherbakova captured the gold medal in the women’s singles competition. Another protégé trained under different guidance, Alexander Trusov, achieved a podium finish, highlighting the depth of talent within Tutberidze’s program and the broader Russian skating system at that period.
Beyond competition results, the coach has addressed broader issues connected to the sport, including discussions surrounding doping cases involving Russian skaters. In particular, there has been public commentary linked to Kamila Valieva that Tutberidze has previously spoken about. The conversations reflect the complex intersection of elite sport, national pride, medication and testing protocols, and the scrutiny that skaters must navigate on the world stage. Tutberidze’s remarks in various forums suggest a desire to focus on performance and development while acknowledging the ongoing governance and integrity debates that shape competitive skating today.
Looking ahead, observers and fans alike are watching closely for indications about Russia’s return to international events. Tutberidze’s comments, when translated and contextualized for audiences in Japan and beyond, underscore a belief in resilience and a readiness to resume competition under appropriate rules and timelines. The situation remains dynamic, with sport federations, athletes, and coaches preparing for a pathway back that honors the standards of fair play, safety, and competitive integrity. In this climate, the conversation about coaching excellence, athlete development, and strategic planning continues to evolve as nations recalibrate their footprints in global sports.