Russian figure skaters Adeliia Petrosian and Petr Gumennik qualify for 2026 Winter Olympics as neutral athletes

Russian figure skaters Adeliia Petrosian and Petr Gumennik have secured spots at the 2026 Winter Olympics, set to compete as neutral athletes due to ongoing sanctions against Russia in international sports following their invasion of Ukraine just after the 2022 Olympics. Both skaters earned their berths for next year’s Milan-Cortina Olympic Games through strong performances at qualifying events, demonstrating consistent technical skill and artistry. Neutral athletes earn Olympic spots for themselves individually, while other skaters secure quota places for their country.


Petrosian, known for her graceful jumps and expressive performances, and Gumennik, recognised for his athleticism and technical precision, will compete under the International Olympic Committee (IOC) flag rather than Russia, in line with neutral athlete rules. Their participation highlights the continued presence of elite Russian talent in figure skating despite ongoing geopolitical restrictions.


At the 2025 ISU Skate to Milano Figure Skating Qualifier, competing as an Individual Neutral Athlete, Gumennik delivered five high-scoring quadruple jumps in the free skate, overcoming a few shaky landings to achieve a total score of 262.82, securing his spot at next year’s Olympics. His victory came just a day after Petrosian claimed the women’s event, finishing ahead of two former European champions.


Petrosian is widely expected to be a strong contender for gold at the Milan-Cortina Olympics. While Petrosian’s jumps were outstanding, she earned relatively few points on her step sequences, as neither was awarded a level four.

Additionally, fellow Russian Viktoriia Safonova earned an individual quota as a neutral athlete by finishing fourth alongside Petrosian, further cementing Russia’s continued impact on the sport despite competing under a neutral designation.