International union withdraws neutral status from Russian figure skaters

The International Skating Union (ISU) has revoked the neutral status of Russian figure skaters Kamila Valiyeva and Mark Kondratyuk ahead of competition, preventing them from participating under the status currently required for Russian athletes to compete internationally.

The ISU said the two skaters had been asked to provide additional clarification concerning their registration details and neutral status, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

The decision comes after the ISU introduced arrangements allowing Russian figure skaters to return to its competitions from the current season as individual neutral athletes. Under the rules, eligible Russian skaters can compete without representing Russia or displaying national symbols.

However, the implementation of the neutral-athlete system has continued to involve changes to athletes’ documentation and eligibility ahead of competitions. =

Valiyeva is a former European champion and Olympic team gold medalist, while Kondratyuk is an Olympic team gold medalist and 2022 European champion.

By Sabina Mammadli