Putin's partner Kabaeva at center of influence struggle in Russian sports

Alina Kabaeva, the 2004 Olympic champion in rhythmic gymnastics and widely regarded as the companion of Russian leader Vladimir Putin, has emerged as a key figure in an influence battle within Russian sports. According to available information, Kabaeva played a significant role in diminishing the influence of renowned gymnastics coach Irina Viner. The conflict between the former student and her long-time mentor escalated over several years, eventually becoming public.

Viner, who led the Russian national rhythmic gymnastics team for 24 years and served as the head of the country's Olympic training center, lost several important positions in the Russian sports system following the unsuccessful Tokyo Olympics in 2021. She had trained multiple Olympic champions, but her influence began to wane.

Meanwhile, Kabaeva established her own gymnastics academy, "Sky Grace," which quickly gained substantial state support and funding. This development further strengthened her position, indicating a shift in the power dynamics within Russian sports, with Kabaeva now at the center.