Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva has opened up about her return to competitive ice in the 2026 season, offering a candid assessment of her performances across three major domestic events. The former world junior champion, who stepped away from competition for two years, admitted she had anticipated a more challenging comeback than what ultimately transpired.
Valieva's season began in January, and she quickly found herself navigating a packed schedule that included the Russian Jumping Championship, the Channel One Cup, and the Russian Challenge. Despite the extended absence from formal competition, the skater expressed satisfaction with how she handled the transition back to the competitive environment.
When asked to identify the most memorable moment from her trio of appearances, Valieva pointed to the Russian Jumping Championship as the standout experience. She clarified that this wasn't simply because it was her first event back, but rather due to the unique atmosphere and her own mental state during the competition. Working alongside coach Kondratyuk, she described a surprisingly relaxed and positive environment that helped ease the pressure of her return.
"I was quite focused on the first day, and I liked that feeling, especially after such a long break," Valieva explained. The skater noted that the collaborative jumping sessions with her coach created a lighthearted atmosphere where they could laugh together, which significantly reduced her anxiety levels compared to what she might have expected.
The Channel One Cup presented a different set of challenges for Valieva. While she had managed to keep her nerves in check during her individual return, the team-based nature of this event amplified her competitive drive. She acknowledged putting extra pressure on herself, wanting to exceed her current capabilities for the sake of her teammates, a feeling she remembered from her experiences in 2022.
"When that team feeling appears, which I remember from 2022, you want to give your maximum, to jump higher than your head," Valieva shared. She admitted to overthinking during the Channel One Cup but ultimately felt she performed to the best of her ability at that moment, describing it as a respectable showing for her first team competition back.
The Russian Challenge stood out as a particularly enjoyable experience for Valieva, who described it with genuine affection. She highlighted the positive atmosphere among competitors, noting that despite the inherent rivalry of any sporting event, the skaters maintained a supportive and friendly dynamic in the locker room. Reuniting with athletes she had competed against in 2022, including some who had since retired, created a sense of nostalgia that made the competition feel more like a celebration.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.