Stepanova and Bukin said that a season without international tournaments would benefit them
Russian figure skaters Alexandra Stepanova and Ivan Bukin, who compete in ice dancing, found advantages in the absence of international tournaments. Their words are quoted by RIA Novosti.
“This season without international starts is even to our advantage. We are looking for the positives in this situation, although, of course, we really want to compete at international tournaments,” Stepanova said. Bukin noted that after a year-long break they returned in order to be leaders and prepare for their return to world competitions.
Stepanova and Bukin are two-time champions of Russia and multiple medalists of the European Championships. They also have gold at the Junior World Championships. At their first tournament after a break in their career, the Russian Grand Prix in Krasnoyarsk, the couple won gold.
On March 1, 2022, the International Skating Union (ISU) banned Russians and Belarusians from participating in competitions under its auspices. Due to sanctions, skaters were unable to take part in the World and European Championships, as well as other international tournaments.
Source: Lenta
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