A new figure skating school named after Alina Zagitova is planned in the Republic of Tatarstan
The Kazan edition of Business Online reports the proposal to establish a figure skating center named in honor of Olympic champion Alina Zagitova, set in the Republic of Tatarstan. This development is framed as a concrete step to strengthen athletic programs and nurture young talent in the region.
During the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Zagitova publicly addressed Rustam Minnikhanov, the head of Tatarstan, presenting a formal idea to create the school bearing her name. The moment marked a turning point, signaling alignment between the athlete’s vision and regional ambitions for winter sports education and infrastructure.
Following the proposal, leadership in Tatarstan welcomed the concept. Zagitova and her mother visited the Ministry of Sports to discuss the institution’s potential format, governance, and training models. The conversations focused on integrating high-quality coaching, advanced facilities, and a program that could produce athletes capable of competing at the highest international levels while fostering community enthusiasm for figure skating.
Plans outline that the school would begin by utilizing existing infrastructure, creating a practical bridge between current resources and long-term development. In addition, a broader project envisions constructing a dedicated palace to house the school in the later phase. Once completed, the center would relocate to the new premises, expanding capabilities for training, performance showcases, and student development. The overall strategy emphasizes a sustainable approach to growth, ensuring that the facility supports athletes from beginner levels through elite competition, while also serving as a hub for coaching excellence and youth engagement.
The Zagitova family’s involvement is described as instrumental in shaping the direction of the project. The athlete’s rise to fame through Olympic success has made her a role model for aspiring skaters, and the planned center is framed as a lasting tribute that also acts as a catalyst for regional sports achievement. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to elevate winter sports in Russia and to provide world-class training environments that can attract participants regionally and beyond. The envisioned program would emphasize technical skill development, artistry on ice, and holistic athletic training to support healthy, well-rounded athletes who can excel on national and international stages.
Officials stressing the project note that the school would extend opportunities for youth and provide a structured path for those who dedicate themselves to figure skating. The collaboration between regional authorities, Zagitova’s team, and sports administrators aims to create a lasting educational framework that blends elite coaching with community access. This approach is designed to inspire confidence among families seeking investment in athletic futures and to position Tatarstan as a recognized center for skating excellence. In this light, the proposed center is presented not only as a place for elite athletes but also as a beacon for sport, education, and regional pride.