Figure skating: the International Federation will propose to raise the minimum age to compete in seniors

The Kamila Valieva affair has left its mark. The Russian skater, plunged into turmoil in the middle of the Beijing Games following testing positive for a banned substance and finally fourth in the individual event on Thursday evening, took part in the senior events at the age of fifteen. However, according to the regulations of the World Anti-Doping Agency, the treatment of doping cases for athletes under sixteen is different, with a right to secrecy and reduced sanctions. To avoid reliving such a situation in the future, the ISU, the international skating federation, intends to raise the minimum age for participation.

A passage from 15 to 17 years is envisaged

In a statement, the ISU confirmed that an increase from 15 to 17 years of this age limit to compete in all disciplines of figure skating was considered. “The detailed proposal will be published on April 30, specifies the ISU. To be adopted, a majority of two-thirds of the members of the ISU is required. Its next congress is scheduled for June 6-10 in Phuket (Thailand). The ISU Council, made up of thirteen members whose president, the Dutchman Jan Dijkema, is the governing body of the international federation. On the sidelines of the women’s Olympics-2022 event, the American Mariah Bell, 25, had indicated that she was “totally” in favor of raising the minimum age which is currently 15 years old to wear it. at 17 years old. “This will encourage having skaters who work over time,” said Swiss Alexia Paganini.