Valieva announces return to figure skating
The figure skater is preparing to compete at the Russian Jumping Championships. Experts are discussing her prospects after a long break.
Jan 20, 2026 0
Kamila Valieva poses in a photo with other figure skaters.
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Kamila Valieva, 19, has announced the end of her career break. The figure skater, who has not participated in official competitions for several years, stated her intention to return to competition. Her first challenge will be the Russian Jumping Championships.
“Friends, I have news for you — I’m returning to the big ice. Of course, I’m very nervous, but I’m even more excited to feel the competitive thrill again at the Russian Jumping Championships. I will debut one of my new programs at the Channel One Cup — that will be a special celebration for me. I want to invite you to accompany me on this journey, because your love and support have been the most powerful source of motivation for me,” Valieva said.
It is worth recalling that Valieva served a four-year disqualification, which ended on 25 December. She is currently training at Tatiana Navka’s school under the guidance of coach Svetlana Sokolovskaya.
The news of Valieva’s return has sparked reactions among experts. Honored Coach of the USSR Tatiana Tarasova believes the figure skater will be able to quickly regain form. “I’m thrilled by this news! Well done. That’s a real step! She will show exactly what she can do today. I haven’t been to her training sessions, but I think she can already do a lot,” the mentor was quoted by RIA Novosti.
2002 Olympic medalist Ilya Averbukh noted that returning to big-time sport is rarely easy, even for well-known athletes. “Kamila has grown up, and entering the new season, this river of big sport, is a test. But at the same time, she is young, talented, she has a wonderful coaching staff, and all conditions are created, so everything is in Kamila’s own hands,” the figure skater told TASS. Averbukh added that support is critically important for Valieva now, as the upcoming path is long and difficult.
Valieva’s return coincides with changes in her career — she is now working without Eteri Tutberidze. At the same time, Olympic champion Adelina Sotnikova has become a mother for the second time, focusing on her family.
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