Alina Kabaeva: The rising power in Russian sports amid Putin's controversy
Alina Kabaeva, the alleged partner of Vladimir Putin, has gained influence in Russian sports in recent years. According to reports by "BBC News", her actions have sparked controversy due to the granting of special rights. Details have been provided.
Alina Kabaeva, a former rhythmic gymnast, has held key roles in Russian sports since 2022. As a result, she has become much more popular in Russia, which has led to her being labelled as Putin's lover. She founded the international association "Sky Grace" and a school of the same name.
"Sky Grace" has special rights allowing the organisation of competitions according to its own rules. - The school often publishes videos of training sessions where Kabaeva advises students. They appear to be random behind-the-scenes footage, but these videos are carefully selected - reports the "Meduza" service.
Alina Kabaeva's school has special privileges
As reported by "BBC News", Alina Kabaeva's association gained special rights that allow it to grant sports titles independently of official regulations.
Sky Grace has been granted unrivaled privileges among Russia’s sports schools. Kabaeva’s creation is authorized to set its own competition calendar, organize tournaments under its own rules (sidestepping the regulations established for rhythmic gymnastics in Russia and internationally), and award sports titles independently to students and coaches. For a brief time, Russia’s rhythmic gymnastics programs were even required to coordinate with Sky Grace when amending their own competition rules - as read in one of the articles.
Alina Kabaeva created a new discipline that operates alongside rhythmic gymnastics. Her actions are reportedly causing controversy in the sports community. At the BRICS Games, Kabaeva had a conflict with Irina Viner, her former coach. "BBC News" suggests that Kabaeva aims to take over her position in Russian sports.
Alina Kabaeva is one of the most decorated Russian gymnasts. She won 16 gold medals at the European Championships and 12 at the World Championships. After retiring from her sports career in 2007, Kabaeva became involved in politics. Her alleged relationship with Putin has been of media interest for years.
