The ISU may prohibit figure skaters and coaches from publicly criticizing judging in figure skating
ISU intends to introduce a ban on criticism of judging in figure skating.
original source: RIA
The ISU is considering a ban on public criticism of judging in figure skating, with proposed rule changes sent to national federations for feedback. Here’s a translation.
The International Skating Union (ISU) may prohibit figure skaters and coaches from publicly criticizing judging in figure skating, according to RIA Novosti, citing an organizational document.
“Inappropriate public comments by competition participants and team officials, who directly or through third parties openly express themselves in an inappropriate manner regarding officials or their decisions, may be punished by the ISU disciplinary commission in accordance with internal procedures,” the document states.
According to the source, the document with proposed changes to the regulations was sent to national federations last week. Federations have one month to provide feedback; if two-thirds vote against, the issue will be brought to the ISU Congress, which will be held in the summer.
If federations do not object, the rule changes will take effect starting with the 2026/27 season.
Related topics: ISU
Lemme guess: the decision what’s deemed “inappropriate” will be a) kept purposefully vague and open to interpretation and b) solely with the ISU disciplinary commission without means to appeal.
Istg, it’s like they get up in the morning, thinking “Right, how much can we ruin the sport today?”
Here’s a novel thought: if judges don’t want to be called out on questionable judging, don’t make questionable judgment calls.
What’s next?