International Skating Union (ISU) President Kim Jae-youl highlighted China's growing influence in winter sports during an exclusive interview with CGTN Sports Scene, pointing to its transformative impact on ice skating's global landscape.
\"China's rapid development in winter sports post-2022 Beijing Olympics has been extraordinary,\" Kim noted, emphasizing the country's infrastructure boom. Over 650 ice rinks now operate across the Chinese mainland, with youth participation tripling since 2015.
As cross-border sports collaboration grows, Kim underscored China's role in diversifying talent pipelines. \"Initiatives like the Chinese Taipei team’s training programs with mainland athletes foster innovation and cultural exchange,\" he said, referencing partnerships ahead of upcoming World Championships.
With esports and digital platforms attracting younger audiences, Kim urged stakeholders to embrace tech-driven engagement: \"Virtual reality training and social media outreach are key to keeping winter sports relevant.\"
The ISU chief also praised sustainability efforts at Beijing’s Olympic venues, now repurposed for public use. \"China’s model proves sporting legacies can align with eco-conscious goals,\" he added.
Reference(s):
Talk Sports: ISU chief on evolution of winter sports and China's role
cgtn.com
