International Skating Union Bans Russia and Belarus from Competitions... Further Measures Possible

'Record Breaker' Valieva and Others Disqualified from Participation

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo Byung-don] The International Skating Union (ISU) decided on the 1st (Korean time) to ban Russian athletes and Belarusian athletes who supported Russia from participating in international competitions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The ISU announced on its website through a board decision, "In accordance with the recommendation of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), we have decided not to allow athletes affiliated with the Russian and Belarusian skating federations to participate in international competitions," adding, "This applies equally to athletes as well as officials."

It further stated, "This sanction will remain in effect until a subsequent board decision is made," and "Additional measures may be taken if necessary."

Along with this, the ISU completely blocked the possibility of athletes belonging to the Russian and Belarusian federations participating under a neutral affiliation.

Accordingly, Russian and Belarusian athletes are barred from participating in the 2021-2022 ISU Speed Skating World Championships, Short Track World Championships, and Figure Skating World Championships held in March.

Due to this sanction, 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics women's singles figure skating gold medalist Anna Shcherbakova, silver medalist Aleksandra Trusova, as well as the 'record breaker' Kamila Valieva have lost their eligibility to compete in the World Championships.

Meanwhile, South Korea will not participate in the Speed Skating World Championships held from March 3 to 6 in Hamar, Norway, due to the closure of air routes caused by the Ukraine invasion situation.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.