Russian Skaters Perform Ukrainian Carol at China Junior Grand Prix, Prompting Controversy

What happened

Ukrainska Pravda English reports that Russian athletes competing under a neutral flag performed to a routine including the Ukrainian Shchedryk carol during the Junior Grand Prix in figure skating held in China on 20 August.

This tournament marks the first international figure skating event since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine that allowed participants from Russia and Belarus to compete. The ice dance duo, Mariia Fefelova and Artem Valov, performed their rhythm dance to a blend of Vivaldi and Shchedryk music, choreographed by French choreographer Benoit Richaud, who has worked extensively with Russian skaters this season.

The choice to include Shchedryk, also known internationally as Carol of the Bells and a Ukrainian folk carol by Mykola Leontovych, has provoked a wave of negative reactions from viewers online, given the ongoing conflict and sensitivities surrounding cultural symbols from Ukraine.

Known from the source

• The Junior Grand Prix in figure skating took place in China on 20 August 2026.
• Russian athletes competed under a neutral status at this event, the first since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine began.
• Ice dance duo Mariia Fefelova and Artem Valov performed their rhythm dance to music including the Ukrainian carol Shchedryk.
• Their routine was choreographed by Benoit Richaud, a French choreographer working with Russian skaters this season.
• The use of Shchedryk in their performance attracted harsh criticism from viewers online.

What remains unclear

While the report does not confirm any official response from skating authorities or the athletes themselves, the episode underlines the complex intersections of sport, culture, and geopolitics amid war, especially in events featuring Russian and Belarusian athletes under neutral status.

What remains unclear: Official statements from the Junior Grand Prix organisers regarding the performance and the use of Ukrainian music. Any direct comments from Mariia Fefelova, Artem Valov, or Benoit Richaud about their choice of music. Verification of whether there have been any protests or disciplinary actions linked to this performance. Ensure the wording clearly attributes controversy to online viewer reactions without implying wider official condemnation.

Evidence note

Outside Brief has kept this brief source-led and attributed. Claims should be read alongside the original source linked below.

Original source: Ukrainska Pravda English. Open the source.