July 15, 2025 – Baku, Azerbaijan
The International Skating Union (ISU) has denied Russian figure skater Veronika Zhilina’s request to represent Azerbaijan, effectively blocking her from competing for the country in the upcoming season.
According to Russian media citing sources close to the matter, the ISU Council made the decision during a session held on July 4–5.
Zhilina, 17, had received Azerbaijani citizenship and hoped to continue her international career under a new flag after facing limited opportunities in Russia due to ongoing international sanctions and restrictions.
However, the Russian Figure Skating Federation previously refused to release her, and although Zhilina reportedly paid a fee of approximately 1 million rubles ($11,000 USD) to cover training expenses, the ISU ultimately sided with the Russian federation’s objection.
The move deals a blow to both the skater and Azerbaijan’s efforts to strengthen its figure skating program by recruiting international talent. Zhilina, once considered one of Russia’s brightest prospects, will now remain ineligible to compete under the Azerbaijani flag unless the ISU reverses its decision or new terms are negotiated.
