Key facts
- Jae Youl Kim is expected to be reelected unopposed for a second four-year term as president of the International Skating Union (ISU).
- Kim's reelection follows the success of the recent Milan Cortina Olympics, which he described as a "huge success."
- He recently joined the International Olympic Committee's executive board, representing winter sports.
- The ISU announced a significant increase in prize money, doubling it to $11.1 million for the next season.
- The ISU is considering the timing for a potential full return of Russian athletes to international competitions.
Jae Youl Kim is set to be reelected unopposed for a second four-year term as president of the International Skating Union (ISU) on Friday. His reelection comes after a successful Milan Cortina Olympics and his recent elevation to the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) executive board, representing winter sports.
Kim, a Samsung executive, highlighted the success of the Milan Games, stating, “Milan was a huge success, we couldn’t ask for anything better.” He is now the first skating representative on the IOC board in 18 years, potentially serving through the 2034 Utah Olympics.
His path to reelection was smoother than that of Johan Eliasch, who was ousted as president of the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) following a contentious election. The ISU's member federations met in Tenerife for their congress, which concluded with the presidential vote.
Kim, who grew up skating in Seoul, expressed a desire to keep skating inspiring for others. He studied politics and business in the U.S. and has a background leading the Korea Skating Union and working with the Pyeongchang Winter Games organizing committee. He emphasized respect for athletes, noting his engagement with social media and admiration for skaters like Jutta Leerdam, Alysa Liu, and Ilia Malinin.
In terms of financial support, the ISU pledged to more than double its prize money fund to $11.1 million for the upcoming season, up from $5.4 million. Member federations will also see an increase in travel cost support by $2.1 million.
Regarding the participation of Russian athletes, the ISU allowed them to attempt qualification for the Milan Olympics, though they remain excluded from other championships. The full return of Russian skaters was not on the agenda for the Tenerife meeting, but Kim indicated that the ISU Council will consider the matter at an appropriate time.