By Canada Wire Staff
MILAN, Italy — As the women’s singles figure skating competition commences today, 17 February 2026, at the Milano Cortina Winter Games, all eyes are on 18-year-old Adeliia Petrosian. The three-time Russian national champion enters the Olympic stage as the ultimate “wild card,” competing as an Individual Neutral Athlete (AIN) following the International Skating Union’s (ISU) vetting process.
Petrosian, who has dominated the Russian domestic circuit with four consecutive national titles (2023–2026), remains a mystery to many of her international peers. Due to the ongoing suspension of Russian teams from international play, Petrosian has rarely competed outside her home country since moving to the senior ranks. However, her technical arsenal—which includes multiple quadruple jumps and a triple axel—makes her a formidable threat to the podium favourites, including Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto and American star Alysa Liu.
Controversy on the Ice
The teenager’s Olympic debut has not been without friction. On Monday, the ISU issued a pre-emptive statement following the appearance of Petrosian’s coach, Eteri Tutberidze, at the practice sessions in Milan. Tutberidze was at the centre of the doping scandal involving Kamila Valieva during the 2022 Beijing Games. While Petrosian herself was cleared to compete as a neutral after winning an Olympic qualifier in September, the presence of her coaching staff has reignited debates regarding athlete welfare and fair play.
Fitness and Form
Despite concerns regarding her fitness following a difficult performance at a Russian Grand Prix stage in late 2025, Petrosian told reporters after Monday’s practice that she is feeling “excellent.” Observers noted her landing several high-difficulty jumps during the session, though questions remain about her stamina over the course of a full free skate program.
“She is the complete x-factor,” noted analysts at Rocker Skating. “She has the resume of a gold medal contender, but the lack of international judging benchmarks makes her the most unpredictable skater in the field.”
How to Watch
The women’s short programme is scheduled to take place today, with the decisive free skate following later this week. Canadian viewers can follow the action live via CBC Sports as the “Petrosian Mystery” finally unfolds on the world’s biggest stage.
All currency in CAD ($). Dates reflected as of 17 February 2026.