Sofia Samodelkina Withdraws from European Championships After Training Injury, Team Confirms
Sofia Samodelkina will not compete at the upcoming European Figure Skating Championships after suffering an injury in training, her team confirmed on Monday. The development removes one of the more watched young athletes from the field just days before the event begins.
Injury occurred during on-ice session
Samodelkina sustained the injury during a routine on-ice practice session, where the exact mechanism involved a hard fall while attempting a jump combination. Medical staff evaluated her immediately and determined that competing would pose a risk to both short-term performance and long-term recovery. The team emphasized that the decision to withdraw was made to prioritize the skater's health.
At 15 years old, Samodelkina has drawn attention for her technical ambition and consistency landing complex jump elements in competition. The withdrawal is notable because she had been considered a medal contender based on recent national performances and international juniors results.
Medical update and next steps
Initial medical imaging indicated a soft-tissue injury rather than a major bone fracture. Samodelkina will undergo a more thorough evaluation in the coming days, including follow-up scans and a tailored rehabilitation plan. Her coaching staff said a conservative recovery timeline will guide decisions about returning to training and future competitions.
Coaches and the athlete's support team stressed that protecting development and preventing re-injury are the priorities. That approach could mean a phased comeback with limited on-ice load, targeted physical therapy, and gradual reintroduction of jump elements under close supervision.
Impact on the field and reactions
The withdrawal reshuffles expectations for the European Championships, removing a technically gifted contender and opening opportunities for other athletes. Peers, coaches, and fans expressed sympathy and support for Samodelkina following the announcement, noting her resilience and competitive promise despite the setback.
Organizers have an alternate entry process if federations choose to substitute an athlete, but timing and eligibility rules mean not every vacancy can be filled. The skater's federation is evaluating options and will communicate any roster changes through official channels.
Samodelkina's career has been watched closely as she transitions from junior ranks into senior-level competition. This injury interrupts her immediate plans but, if managed prudently, should not derail long-term prospects. The coming weeks will be important for clarifying her recovery timeline and plans for returning to competition.
Filmogaz will provide updates as further medical details and schedule decisions become available.
