Meeting of dignitaries from ISU and the Winter Sports Administrative Center of the General Administration of Sport of China in Beijing. © ISU

The International Skating Union (ISU) and the Winter Sports Administrative Center of China have strengthened their partnership with the aim of boosting ice skating in China, in line with the ISU Vision 2030. This collaboration includes the organization of global competitions and the establishment of Beijing as a key hub for the sport.

Meeting recently in Beijing, senior executives from both organizations, led by ISU President Jae Youl Kim and CWSAC Director Wang Lei, outlined an ambitious plan that aims not only to raise the competitive level of skating in China but also to promote sustainability and innovation in every event organized.

The Asian giant has been a key player in the ice skating scene for years, as well as in other sports, hosting world-class competitions and developing athletes who shine on the international stage. Now,with the implementation of ISU Vision 2030, a roadmap designed to modernize skating at all levels, the country is preparing to make a qualitative leap. This plan covers everything from the modernization of event formats to the renewal of branding strategies, always upholding the ISU's core values: fairness, clean sport, and athlete protection.



The collaboration between the ISU and the CWSAC is reflected in Beijing's preparation to host several high-profile events in the upcoming season, including the World Short Track Speed Skating Championships in March 2025. These competitions stand out not only for their organizational excellence but also for the synergy between Chinese institutions, which, along with the Chinese Skating Association (CSA), have shown significant progress in their planning.

One of the most exciting points discussed at the meeting was the launch of the ISU Short Track World Tour, a new global series that promises to revolutionize the short track skating experience. With explosive energy and a format that will capture the attention of fans, this series of events will kick off in October 2024 and make a stop in Beijing from December 6 to 8 of that year. This tour is not just a competition; it is a spectacle in itself, where speed and strategy combine to offer an unforgettable experience for both competitors and spectators.

ISU Director General Colin Smith and Director of the Winter Sports Administrative Center Wang Lei. © ISU
ISU Director General Colin Smith and Director of the Winter Sports Administrative Center Wang Lei. © ISU

Another highly relevant topic was the development of Centers of Excellence (CoEs) in Beijing, which have become fundamental pillars for the advancement of skating in its various disciplines: speed, figure, short track, and synchronized skating. The CWSAC reiterated its commitment to consolidating Beijing as a global hub for the training of skaters and coaches, building on the legacy left by the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics.

Looking ahead, the ISU and CWSAC have committed to further strengthening ties, with a special focus on creating outdoor skating events in some of China's most beautiful landscapes. These initiatives will not only encourage mass participation but will also expand the appeal of ice skating to a broader audience, making every corner of the country resonate with the magic of this sport.