The women’s singles free skate at the 2022 Beijing Olympics could be qualified for the top 25, not the top 24, in the short program. This was reported on the website of the International Skating Union (ISU).
They decided to change the rules because of the situation with the Russian woman Kamila Valieva, who was admitted to the competition, but remains suspected of doping. The number of participants in the free program will be increased if Valieva gets into the top 24 after the first run.
Earlier on February 14, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) lifted the temporary suspension from Valieva. The figure skater was allowed to participate in the individual tournament at the Olympic Games. The reason was the status of the “protected person” of the athlete and the late notification of a positive doping test.
Figure skaters will present a short program on February 15. Medals will be played in the free program on February 17. If Valieva gets on the podium, the awards ceremony will be cancelled. It will take place only when the proceedings in the athlete’s case are over.
Source: Lenta
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