“He’s just a normal, good guy! A sweetheart, as I call him. Open to communication, very calm. I didn’t notice any arrogance. Ilia speaks Russian, understands everything, but gives interviews in English.” Tuktamysheva on Ilia Malinin

World figure skating champion Elizaveta Tuktamysheva announced that she will go to the 2026 Olympics in Milan as a journalist for Okko.

original source: Sport24

World champion figure skater Elizaveta Tuktamysheva will attend the 2026 Milan Olympics as a journalist for Okko, sharing her thoughts on the profession and her excitement for the experience. a translation of her comments.

“Q: You’ve already interviewed foreign skaters at the Grand Prix Final. Was it difficult?

Elizaveta Tuktamysheva: I didn’t position myself as a journalist. I tried to create a friendly vibe, but speaking in English was very nerve-wracking. I thought I’d sink under that camera. The first interview was incredibly scary, because it’s important to connect with the athlete. If you think too long or stumble, that connection breaks. In Russian, on the other hand, it was comfortable and pleasant. You take a couple of main topics and develop them in conversation.

Q: What is Ilia Malinin like in real life?

Elizaveta Tuktamysheva: He’s just a normal, good guy! A sweetheart, as I call him. Open to communication, very calm. I didn’t notice any arrogance. Ilia speaks Russian, understands everything, but gives interviews in English.

Q: Has working as a journalist made you see the profession differently?

Elizaveta Tuktamysheva: It was unusual. In some ways, it’s even easier for athletes at competitions. We were at the arena almost all day. You have to look good and keep your mind sharp to conduct interviews well. Plus, it’s very emotional – I was really worried about the athletes. I truly saw the profession from a different angle. It was my first experience like this, and at first I felt uncomfortable. I hope that will change with experience.

Q: Do you have any special feelings about attending the Olympics?

Elizaveta Tuktamysheva: I was already at Sochi in 2014 as a spectator. I thought I’d finally go to the Olympics, but I don’t have any special emotions about it. I’m just glad to be there. It’s Milan! I haven’t been there in so many years. It’s not just shopping – it’s the food, the old streets, limoncello… Well, just lemons, haha! I’m looking forward to it.

But the most important thing for me is to do a good job. Everything else comes after that.”

Related topics: Elizaveta Tuktamysheva, Ilia Malinin