A US journalist weighed in on whether Russian figure skaters might return to the international stage amid ongoing suspension decisions. He shared his views on his YouTube channel Skating Lesson, questioning whether a comeback would restore the sport’s balance if athletes who struggle to glide could still land jumps. He suggested that such a return would not be beneficial for figure skating, calling it not a viable option for the sport’s health and integrity.
Nevertheless, the same observer acknowledged that Russian skaters could boost the sport’s star power on the global circuit. Their return would likely attract attention and drive audience interest, even if the implications for competition quality remained debated.
In late February 2022, the International Olympic Committee urged international sports federations to restrict participation by domestic and Belarusian athletes in competitions. Following this guidance, the International Skating Union suspended Russian and Belarusian competitors from events, concentrating on domestic measures during the 2022/23 season, including national championships and the Russian Grand Prix stages. While the topic of a potential return was discussed at ISU meetings, it did not advance to a formal agenda at that time.
The most recent official event for Russian figure skaters took place at the 2022 Winter Games in Beijing, marking a pivotal moment in the broader debate over eligibility and competition status. The European Championships then faced a notable absence of Russian competitors, which some observers described as a missed opportunity for the sport’s roster and visibility.
Overall, the situation remains a focal point for fans and officials alike, balancing competitive fairness with the desire to preserve the sport’s global appeal and competitive depth. The dialogue continues as stakeholders assess the implications of any potential return against the backdrop of ongoing governance decisions and international sports policy. [citation: IOC decisions and ISU statements; ongoing governance discussions, attribution to official bodies]”