Russian Figure Skaters Win Olympic Qualifiers Awaiting IOC Sanctions Decision

Russian figure skaters Adeliia Petrosian and Petr Gumennik have qualified as neutral athletes for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy following their victories at the final qualifying event in Beijing. Due to sanctions related to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, they will compete without national flags or symbols and must meet stringent IOC conditions to participate. Petrosian, known for her artistic routines themed around Michael Jackson and Argentine tango, scored 209.63 points to win the women's event and is considered a top medal contender. Gumennik led the men's short program and is on track to qualify as well. These skaters are competing under the "Individual Neutral Athlete" status, a pathway established by the International Skating Union after the exclusion of Russian and Belarusian athletes from international events. While their wins secure quota spots for Russia's skating federation, final Olympic participation depends on a special IOC commission's approval and compliance with sanctions.