Rodnina reacted positively to Kibalko's election as ISU Vice President

The election of Russian Alexander Kibalko as vice-president of the International Skating Union (ISU) testifies to Russia's return to top-level sports, not only at the level of athletes, but also in leadership structures. This was announced on June 13 by three-time Olympic champion and State Duma deputy Irina Rodnina.

"One can only react well to Kibalko's election. I am very happy for Alexander. <...> This is an indicator that we are starting to return to top—level sports not only as athletes, but also in leadership positions," she said in an interview with Metaratings.

Rodnina recalled that earlier Russian representatives had been removed from the technical committees and bureaus of international sports organizations, as well as lost judicial representation. She also commented on the re-election of ISU President Kim Jae-young, noting that decisions in the organization are made collectively, and not solely by its head.

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She consistently went to the title of national champion.

The International Skating Union announced on June 11 that Jae Yel Kim remained the only candidate for the post of president of the organization. It follows from the published list that five Russians are also applying for senior positions. The vote was held on June 12.