Zhurova allowed the gradual admission of Russian symbols by the ISU at tournaments
The International Skating Union (ISU) will gradually allow Russian athletes to wear the country's flag and anthem. This was announced on June 30 by the deputy of the State Duma, Olympic champion in speed skating Svetlana Zhurova.
The MP clarified that due to the strong influence of European countries on ISU, it would be difficult to immediately require full admission with national symbols, since winter sports are largely oriented towards Europe.
"I would calmly react to this <... > It is unlikely that the Europeans will immediately allow them to carry a flag and an anthem. So far, we can count on a neutral status, but everything is gradual," she said in an interview with TASS.
Zhurova stressed that the country cannot but use such an opportunity to participate even in a neutral status. According to her, negotiations with European colleagues are possible over time, where the recommendations of the International Olympic Committee will help achieve admission with the symbols of the state.
On this day, the ISU allowed Russian athletes to participate in tournaments in a neutral status. This decision will take effect from the 2026/27 season. Admission also applies to team disciplines, including synchronized skating, team pursuit in speed skating, relay races in short track and the World Team Trophy World Team Championship.
Dmitry Svishchev, First Deputy chairman of the State Duma Committee on Sports, also noted that the ISU initiative can contribute to the return and recovery of the country's athletes in all disciplines. According to him, the return of athletes from Russia and Belarus to the start of the season will benefit the entire international sport.
At the same time, Honored USSR figure skating coach Tatyana Tarasova expressed outrage over the ISU's decision to allow Russian athletes only in neutral status.
Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»
