The ISU World Short Track Speed Skating Championships returns to Beijing's Capital Indoor Stadium this weekend, drawing 164 athletes from 36 countries and regions for its first Beijing edition since 2005. The event highlights the city's enduring role as a hub for international sports, with organizers praising its world-class infrastructure and enthusiastic audience engagement.
ISU President Kim Jae-youl emphasized Beijing's readiness, stating, “We are thrilled to unveil new branding that reflects the sport's intensity. Our goal is to let skaters shine.” The announcement follows China’s strong performance in the 2023-24 ISU World Tour, where its athletes secured 12 medals, including five golds.
Top contenders like Canada’s William Dandjinou and Kristen Santos-Griswold of the U.S. shared their aspirations ahead of the event. Dandjinou, this season’s Crystal Globe winner, said, “Every race is a chance to prove myself.” Santos-Griswold highlighted her resilience: “I learned to bounce back, even when races didn’t go as planned.”
With fans worldwide tuning in, the championships also spotlight Beijing’s post-pandemic revival as a global sports destination. Athletes will compete in events ranging from individual sprints to team relays, with China aiming to build on its recent relay victories in December’s Beijing World Tour stop.
