“They did well to leave” – Tarasova supported Russian skaters who changed their nationality

Honored Coach of the USSR Tatyana Tarasova told that Russian figure skaters were making the right choice by changing their sports citizenship amid Russia’s suspension from international competitions.

The European Figure Skating Championships take place in Kaunas (Lithuania) from January 10 to 14. The tournament entry lists include 24 Russian-born skaters: 8 doubles skaters, 7 singles skaters, 5 dancers and 4 singles skaters. Additionally, athletes born outside of Russia, but with a Russian passport, compete for other countries.

— Many skaters were unable to join the Russian national team. In the absence of the Russians, did they have a chance of winning medals?

– Yes. And they’re doing the right thing by leaving. Sport is their life, their profession, they must perform well,” Tarasova told .

Russian figure skaters have not participated in international tournaments under the auspices of the International Skating Union (ISU) since March 2022 due to the situation in Ukraine.