🔥 BREAKING NEWS: Sonoko Nakano fined $200,000 and suspended indefinitely following ISU investigation

In a surprising development following the women’s singles final at the Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games, the International Skating Union (ISU) fined Sonoko Nakano $200,000 and suspended her indefinitely. The disciplinary action comes after offensive comments directed at the family of Olympic champion Alysa Liu.

The controversy broke out a few hours after the electrifying final of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Italy. Emotions ran high as Alysa Liu scored a historic victory, while Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto delivered a performance that captivated millions around the world.

According to official statements from the International Skating Union (ISU), Nakano’s comments were directed at Liu’s family, specifically her father, who has long been recognized as a pillar of support throughout her skating journey. The ISU described the comments as “inappropriate and harmful”.

Witnesses reported that the statements were made in a restricted mixed zone area, where coaches and athletes gathered after the medal ceremony. Although the comments were not broadcast live, they quickly circulated among journalists and insiders present in the arena.

Alysa Liu’s father, who sacrificed time, resources and personal ambitions to support his daughter’s career, was reportedly devastated. People close to the family described the comments as a personal attack that overshadowed what should have been a moment of triumph.

The head coach of the US team, Phillip DiGuglielmo, reacted quickly. Within 24 hours, he sent a formal letter to the president of the Japan Skating Federation, demanding accountability and expressing deep concern about the impact of Nakano’s words.

In his letter, DiGuglielmo emphasized the importance of respect within international figure skating. He stated that athletes and their families deserve dignity, especially after competitions as intense as the Olympic Games, where the pressure and scrutiny are already overwhelming.

The Japan Skating Federation responded by launching its own internal review. However, critics argue that the organization acted only after mounting international pressure. The federation’s delayed statement fueled speculation about internal divisions within Japan’s figure skating leadership.

Kaori Sakamoto, trained by Sonoko Nakano, has not issued a detailed public statement. Sources close to her team say she was “deeply shocked” by the controversy and had no prior knowledge of her coach’s comments.

The International Skating Union (ISU) confirmed that Nakano’s suspension is indefinite, pending further investigation and possible additional sanctions. The governing body emphasized that maintaining professionalism is essential to protect the integrity of the sport on a global stage.

The Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games were intended to symbolize unity and sporting spirit. Instead, this scandal has overshadowed one of the most competitive women’s individual finals in recent Olympic history.

Fans around the world have taken to social media to express their support for Alysa Liu and her family. Many have praised their father’s unwavering commitment, remembering the early mornings, financial challenges and emotional sacrifices that defined his journey to Olympic gold.

Meanwhile, Kaori Sakamoto’s supporters argue that the athlete herself should not bear the consequences of her coach’s actions. They highlight that Sakamoto has consistently demonstrated grace and professionalism throughout his career.

Phillip DiGuglielmo’s decisive intervention has been widely applauded in the United States. Analysts say his direct communication with the Japan Skating Federation prevented the situation from getting even worse and reinforced a culture of accountability.

However, some voices within Japan’s skating community consider the public nature of the dispute damaging. They fear the controversy could strain relations between national federations and create tension ahead of upcoming ISU competitions.

Legal experts say the $200,000 fine imposed by the International Skating Union (ISU) is one of the largest ever imposed on a figure skating coach. The financial penalty underscores the seriousness of Nakano’s misconduct.

The incident has reignited broader conversations about the norms of conduct in elite sports. Coaches operate under immense pressure, but governing bodies insist that emotional intensity cannot justify personal attacks, especially against athletes’ families.

For Alysa Liu, the focus now turns to her historic Olympic achievement. Despite the turmoil, she has remained silent publicly, choosing to celebrate with her team and family privately.

His father’s resilience has become a powerful symbol within the world of figure skating. Many see him as the embodiment of the sacrifices countless parents make to support young athletes pursuing their Olympic dreams.

The Japan Skating Federation has agreed to fully cooperate with the ISU investigation. Experts suggest that further disciplinary action could be taken, depending on the results of the ongoing review process.

As the fallout continues, the future of Sonoko Nakano’s coaching career remains uncertain. An indefinite suspension leaves open the possibility of permanent exclusion from ISU-sanctioned events.

The ripple effects of this controversy extend beyond two nations. International figure skating depends on mutual respect, collaboration and shared standards of conduct to maintain credibility with fans and sponsors.

At its core, this breaking news highlights the fragile balance between fierce competition and human decency. The Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics showcased extraordinary talent, but also revealed how quickly words can eclipse achievements.

It remains to be seen whether this episode becomes a turning point for stricter ethical guidelines within the International Skating Union (ISU). What is certain is that the skating world will not forget the lessons learned in this turbulent Olympic chapter.