Sergei Ustugov, the Olympic champion skier, shared in a recent interview with Match TV that he would have participated in the 50 km race at the Russian Championship in Syktyvkar if it hadn’t been for an illness that sidelined him. As the women’s race is underway at the championship, Ustugov reflects on his missed opportunity at one of his beloved venues.
Feeling the spirit of the competition, Ustugov mentioned that he was looking forward to competing in Syktyvkar, known for its rich skiing history and challenging courses. On March 4, 2025, he clinched victory in the sprint at the Russian Championship held in Kazan but was unable to compete in the team sprint on March 8 due to his recent illness.
“I would have raced the 50 km,” Ustugov remarked on Match TV. “Honestly, I was gearing up for the entire program at the Russian Championship—to run the relays and come back here. I wanted to finish the season strong. But it happened, and that’s how it has to be. Nobody is immune to this.”
As Ustugov recovers, the women’s mass start for the 50 km race continues to attract attention, featuring Olympic champion Yulia Stupak among the competitors. Stupak made headlines over the summer when she announced her departure from the Russian national team, opting to take a break from her career and train independently. This February, she confirmed her return to official competitions, quickly becoming a focal point at this year's championship.
“I was excited to come back and compete—there’s a great atmosphere here,” Stupak mentioned as she prepared for the race, which is scheduled for Saturday. After missing the sprint event in Kazan due to illness, she is eager to prove herself in Syktyvkar.
Alongside Stupak are other prominent female skiers such as Tatyana Sorina and Evgenia Kruzhpizkaya who are also set for the marathon. Conversely, notable absences include Natalia Terentyeva, Daria Nepryaeva, Ekaterina Smirnova, Anastasia Faleeva, Anastasia Kuleshova, and Alina Peklezova, who will not compete.
The excitement builds as the women’s race unfolds today, bolstered by the thrilling backdrop of recent events at the Russian Championship. With competitive spirits high, the atmosphere is electric as fans tune in for live coverage on Match TV.
As Ustugov watches from the sidelines, he feels a mix of emotions—support for his fellow competitors, nostalgia for the racing experience, and a determination to return stronger next season. His focus now remains on recovery, aiming for an eventual re-entry into competition.
While the women's race takes center stage today, Ustugov's insights remind fans of the hardworking athletes who prepare diligently for their moment to shine on the slopes, each vying for glory in an unyielding sport.
