Ice Skating's Leadership Solidifies as Kim Set to Continue as President

GENEVA (AP) — The International Skating Union is poised for a smooth presidential election on Friday, with Jae Youl Kim expected to secure a second four-year term without opposition. This comes in stark contrast to the recent upheaval in the skiing community. Kim's reelection follows his recent appointment to the International Olympic Committee’s executive board, where he represents winter sports.

Having first been elected just before the successful Milan Cortina Olympics, Kim reflected on the event, stating, “Milan was a huge success, we couldn’t ask for anything better. Venues were good and our skaters were incredible.” He has become the first representative from the skating world on the IOC board in nearly two decades and may continue through the 2034 Utah Olympics, a period that may see significant changes in Winter Games sports.

Kim's leadership has gained him respect among the eight sports within the Winter Olympic framework, achieving consensus even as Johan Eliasch was recently removed from his role as president of the International Ski and Snowboard Federation following a contentious election.

Growing up in Seoul, Kim developed a passion for skating and later pursued studies in politics and business in the United States. He emphasized his commitment to athletes, stating, “They are the only assets that we have and we ought to make sure that we provide everything we can to make them the star.” This approach is evident in the ISU's decision to more than double the prize money for the next season to $11.1 million, along with an increase in travel assistance for member federations.

While Russian athletes were allowed to qualify for the Olympics in Milan, their participation in other competitions remains restricted due to ongoing geopolitical issues. Kim noted that discussions surrounding Russia's full return to the sport are ongoing, emphasizing the need for careful consideration. “I want to be able to look back at ISU 20 years from now and then I want to be able to say, ‘Hey, we did the right thing,’” he concluded.