Why are so many elite skaters Russian?

February 23, 2026

TL;DR

Several elite figure skaters competing for the US team, like Ilia Malinin, Andrew Torgashev, and Maxim Naumov, are of Russian descent, sparking questions about the influence of the Russian skating system.
Russia, despite being banned from recent Olympics, remains a dominant force in figure skating medal counts, indicating a resilient training system.
The Soviet Union prioritized amateur athletics for public health and professional sports for soft power and international victories, with figure skating enjoying particular respect.
The current Russian system continues to receive significant state support for figure skating, making it accessible and affordable for children to start, and offering a clear path for talented athletes.
In contrast, figure skating in the US is largely a commercial endeavor, requiring substantial financial investment from parents and lacking the same level of prestige, leading to a smaller pool of talent.
The article argues that the success of Russian skaters is rooted in a well-established, state-supported training system that identifies and develops talent from a vast pool of enthusiasts, offering a potential for a lucrative career.
Sports sanctions against Russian athletes are criticized for not solving political crises and only preventing athletes from showcasing their skills and audiences from enjoying their performances.

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