MILAN, Italy — The spotlight of the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics shifted to the ice on Tuesday, February 17, 2024, as 18-year-old Adeliia Petrosian prepared for the women’s short program. As a three-time Russian national champion (2024–2026), Petrosian enters the Games as a formidable gold medal contender, yet her presence has sparked intense international debate.
Petrosian is one of only 13 Russian athletes permitted to compete in Milan under a neutral flag. Despite her dominant domestic record, she remains a “mystery” to many international competitors due to the prolonged ban on Russian skaters from International Skating Union (ISU) events. She has competed in only one senior international event outside of Russia prior to these Games.
Technical Prowess and Fitness Concerns
Known for her high-difficulty technical elements, Petrosian is expected to attempt multiple quadruple jumps in her free skate, a feat that could mathematically distance her from favorites like Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto and America’s Alysa Liu. However, reports from recent practice sessions have highlighted “fitness concerns” and a history of inconsistent performances, including a notable struggle at the 2025 Russian Grand Prix stage where she failed to defend her title following numerous errors.
Despite the pressure, Petrosian told reporters following a practice session at the Milano Ice Park that she is feeling “excellent” and is ready to showcase her programs on the world stage.
Coaching Controversy Shadows Debut
The International Skating Union (ISU) issued a pre-emptive statement on Monday regarding the presence of Petrosian’s coach, Eteri Tutberidze. Tutberidze was at the center of the doping scandal involving Kamila Valieva during the 2022 Beijing Games. While Petrosian herself has no history of doping violations, her association with the controversial coach has drawn scrutiny from officials and fellow athletes alike.
“She is a technically loaded wild card,” noted a Reuters analysis. “While her jumps are world-class, the lack of international judging history makes her the most unpredictable factor in the women’s field.”
The Road to Gold
The women’s individual event is widely considered “anyone’s game.” Petrosian faces stiff competition from:
- Kaori Sakamoto (Japan): The reigning three-time World Champion seeking an Olympic gold to cap her career.
- Alysa Liu (USA): The American star making a high-profile comeback.
- Isabeau Levito (USA): A technical specialist known for her artistic precision.
The women’s short program begins Tuesday evening, with the decisive free skate scheduled for later this week. For Petrosian, the event represents a chance to cement her legacy outside of Russia, provided she can withstand the immense physical and political pressure of the Olympic stage.