Alina Zagitova's Figure Skating School in Kazan Faces Delays
The anticipated construction of Alina Zagitova's figure skating school in Kazan has encountered unexpected challenges, pushing the project timeline back significantly. Initially discussed last summer during the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Tatarstan's leader Rustam Minnikhanov met with the Olympic champion to explore the possibility of establishing a sports facility. Despite early optimism, it has become clear that the school will likely not open in 2024 as planned.
Zagitova was appointed as the manager of the project, intending to oversee various aspects including hiring coaches and engaging directly with students on the ice. Frequent visits to Kazan were part of her commitment to ensure the project moved forward smoothly. The original plan was to launch the school in January 2024 at existing rinks before transitioning to a new facility. However, recent discussions have indicated a shift away from this phased approach.
Financing Issues Delay Construction
According to Tatarstan Sports Minister Vladimir Leonov, while the location for the new figure skating center has been finalized on Portovaya Street, construction has yet to commence due to financial constraints. The project, which has been described as costly, requires hundreds of millions of rubles, and there is currently a lack of investors willing to fund the initiative. Leonov has expressed optimism that by the end of the year, funding solutions will be identified, allowing the project to move forward.
Despite the delays, excitement remains high in the community regarding the new facility, which is set to replace the defunct Vodnik football stadium. The Ministry of Sports has clarified that the stadium has been abandoned for some time, making way for the new school that aims to nurture future figure skating talent.
Zagitova's Commitment to Coaching
Amidst the project delays, Alina Zagitova is preparing for her future role as a coach. Despite her young age of 22, she is eager to share her experience and inspire young skaters. Renowned coach Tatyana Tarasova has voiced her support for Zagitova's involvement in coaching, emphasizing the importance of having a decorated athlete like her work directly with aspiring skaters. Classes at Zagitova's center are expected to be free for gifted children, reinforcing her commitment to developing the next generation of figure skaters.
As the project progresses, the community remains hopeful that the school will soon become a reality, fostering a new era of figure skating in Tatarstan.
