In the coming months, the renowned Russian figure skating coach Eteri Tutberidze plans a trip to the United States with her associate Gleb Smolkin, where her daughter Diana Davis continues training after competing in the 2022 Winter Olympics. Last season, the pair earned silver at the Russian National Championships at the senior level for the first time, signaling a notable milestone in their developing careers.
Longstanding residents of North America, Tutberidze and her companions frequently visit the region, and she often welcomes opportunities to observe from afar. This time, however, Tutberidze will not be able to be on the ice during her daughter’s sessions. Rebecca Stump, the manager of the Norwood training venue, stated that Tutberidze is not permitted to stand on the boards or accompany her daughter onto the ice during practice sessions.
“As far as I know, Eteri Tutberidze could visit our club next week. Her daughter Diana Davis, who competes in ice dance, will be at the rink to work on a new program with choreographer Benoit Richaud. Eteri may come to see her daughter,” the club spokesperson explained. “She will not be allowed to skate or courtside. We expect Eteri, as a parent, to adhere to our club rules.” The policy on parental presence was outlined in a statement posted on Reddit, clarifying the conduct expected at the venue.
French choreographer Benoit Richaud already has experience collaborating with Russian skaters. He recently crafted a fresh program for world champion Elizaveta Tuktamysheva, bringing a new energy to her performances. Igor Shpilband, the designated coach for the Davis/Smolkin duo, asserted that there is no issue with the skaters partnering with a new specialist.
“Collaborating with different experts, choreographers, and directors can help a pair thrive,” Shpilband remarked, as reported by TASS.
Two-time Olympic medalist Alexander Zhulin praised Tutberidze’s decision to travel abroad, highlighting the courage involved, even as it carries potential risks. He spoke of the personal dimension—her daughter is based in the United States—and acknowledged the tension that accompanies such a move. Zhulin emphasized his sympathy for Tutberidze and hoped this circumstance would not shape her long-term career trajectory.
Zhulin characterized Tutberidze as a formidable figure who remains a central presence in the sport. He suggested that removing her influence could impact the future landscape of female figure skating. Still, he cautioned that crossing international borders involves navigating different rules and proprieties, and he did not dispute the right of a private facility to enforce its policies. He urged understanding of the situation and noted the importance of respecting local guidelines.
Former USSR coach Tatyana Tarasova offered a measured assessment, noting that American training facilities operate under their own regulations and that visitors should respect those norms. Tarasova acknowledged the friction that can arise when crossing national lines but refrained from condemning the approach, stating she was not fully acquainted with the full set of rules in force.
State Duma deputy Irina Rodnina expressed a similar sentiment, pointing out that the track owner’s prerogative is to determine access on private property. She described Tutberidze as a highly influential figure in the sport, yet reminded readers that jurisdiction within the United States remains independent from Russian governance. She advised travelers to inquire about policies before visiting, to prevent misunderstandings.
Olympic champion Svetlana Zhurova argued there were no evident legal infractions in Tutberidze’s trip, stating that a coach visiting a daughter abroad to assist in preparation should not attract condemnation. She stressed that personal life and professional commitments can coexist, especially during the off-season when transitions occur and returns to regular duties are anticipated.
Renat Laishev, head of the Sambo-70 center, praised Tutberidze’s enthusiasm for taking part in North American training. He framed the move as a sign of the freedom enjoyed in certain settings and lauded Tutberidze as a prudent, principled mentor who seeks to support her daughter’s growth. Laishev underlined that the decision to go abroad reflects a noble aim rather than a disregard for local norms.
Looking ahead, Diana Davis and Gleb Smolkin are set to debut new programs in the upcoming season. They will, however, continue to compete under the Russian flag, despite Davis’s 19-year-old status and possession of American citizenship, which restricts their ability to participate in international events under another country’s banner.