The International Skating Union (ISU) has announced a strategic partnership with the China National Sports Group (CNSG), the only company fully owned by the General Administration of Sport of China, to strengthen and expand short track speed skating on a global scale. This sport, already immensely popular in China, especially after the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, is set to enter a new era of growth and innovation thanks to this collaboration.
During the ISU Short Track World Cup Beijing 2023, Chinese skaters like Sun Long and Lin Xiaojun competed in the men’s 500 m, underscoring the relevance of short track speed skating in China. The partnership with CNSG aims to capitalize on this popularity, enhancing the sport’s visibility not only in China but worldwide.
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ISU President Jae Youl Kim expressed his excitement and enthusiasm for this alliance, stating that the collaboration with CNSG will unlock the full potential of short track speed skating. “We are delighted to embark on this new partnership with CNSG. Together, the ISU and CNSG share a strong commitment to unlocking the full potential of short track globally, offering greater opportunities for our skaters and creating more value for our commercial partners.”
Colin Smith, ISU’s Director General, highlighted that this partnership will coincide with the launch of the Short Track World Tour in the 2024/2025 season, a new series of events that will take place in North America, Asia, and Europe. He added, “The collaboration with CNSG aligns with ISU’s goals of reimagining the spectator experience, increasing fan engagement, and bringing a fresh, innovative dimension to the sport.”
CNSG President Gu Haoning shared the excitement for this collaboration, emphasizing CNSG’s commitment to further promoting short track speed skating. “CNSG, as a pioneer in the Chinese sports industry, is thrilled about the partnership with ISU.”
The alliance with ISU will maximize the sport’s potential in China and globally, marking a new chapter in the history of short track speed skating.
