In Beijing’s iconic Capital Indoor Stadium, International Skating Union (ISU) President Kim Jae-youl expressed his enthusiasm for the newly launched ISU Short Track World Tour. The series, which kicked off this season, introduces the Team Crystal Globe—a new team competition—alongside fresh team identities and redesigned racing suits featuring unique mascots that embody the national symbols and competitive spirit of each participating team.
In an exclusive interview with CGTN Sports Scene on Saturday, Kim, the first ISU president from outside Europe since the organization’s founding in 1892, highlighted the significance of the Team Crystal Globe’s introduction. “There are many changes, but one thing that’s exciting is that now, this season, we introduced the Crystal Globe team points,” he explained.
Previously, the Crystal Globe was awarded to individual skaters accumulating the most points throughout the season. “This is motivating a lot of the skaters,” Kim added. “It is also creating closer bonding and teamwork amongst the team skaters. So this is one of the exciting changes about the World Tour.”
To celebrate the inaugural edition’s launch, the ISU hosted a rare backstage tour at the stadium, offering a glimpse into areas typically reserved for skaters and officials. The event not only showcased the revamped competition but also underscored China’s capacity to host world-class sporting events.
“China has used the legacy of the Olympics very effectively,” Kim noted during the tour. “For example, we had our Short Track World Tour this weekend in the Capital Indoor Stadium. Last weekend was the Speed Skating World Cup at the Ice Ribbon, and that competition went very well.”
Kim praised the quality of the venues and the organization behind the events. “We had two track records and 20 personal bests at the Ice Ribbon, which is amazing—it’s a testament to how good the quality of the ice is. And here in the Capital Indoor Stadium, we had a world record yesterday in the mixed relay. The venues are fantastic, but not only the venue—the organization, staff, and volunteers—everything is running very well, smoothly. So we are always happy to be back in China for our events.”
As the top short track skaters gear up to return to Beijing for the World Championships from March 14 to 16, anticipation builds. With eyes firmly set on claiming world titles and preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics, the athletes are embracing the new team-focused format, fostering a stronger sense of unity and competition.
The introduction of the Team Crystal Globe and the revitalized ISU Short Track World Tour marks a significant milestone in the sport’s evolution. It not only enhances the competitive landscape but also strengthens international bonds as teams rally together, embodying the spirit of unity and excellence on the ice.
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Exclusive: ISU President Kim celebrates World Tour launch in Beijing
cgtn.com
