BREAKING NEWS: Sonoko Nakano Fined $200,000 and Suspended Indefinitely After ISU Investigation
In a stunning development following the women’s singles final at the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, the International Skating Union (ISU) has fined Sonoko Nakano $200,000 and suspended her indefinitely. The disciplinary action comes after offensive remarks directed at the family of Olympic champion Alysa Liu.
The controversy erupted just hours after the electrifying final at the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. Emotions were running high as Alysa Liu secured a historic victory, while Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto delivered a performance that captivated millions worldwide.
According to official statements from the International Skating Union (ISU), Nakano’s comments targeted Liu’s family, specifically her father, who has long been recognized as a pillar of support throughout her skating journey. The ISU described the remarks as “inappropriate and damaging.”
Witnesses reported that the remarks 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 through journalists and insiders present at the arena.
Alysa Liu’s father, who has sacrificed time, resources, and personal ambitions to support his daughter’s career, was reportedly devastated. Those 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 U.S. national team, Phillip DiGuglielmo, reacted swiftly. Within 24 hours, he sent a formal letter to the president of the Japan Skating Federation, demanding accountability and expressing deep concern over 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 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 Japanese figure skating leadership.
Kaori Sakamoto, coached 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 remarks.
The International Skating Union (ISU) confirmed that Nakano’s suspension is indefinite, pending further investigation and possible additional sanctions. The governing body stressed that maintaining professionalism is critical to protecting the sport’s integrity on a global stage.
The Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics were intended to symbolize unity and sportsmanship. Instead, this scandal has cast a shadow over one of the most competitive women’s singles finals in recent Olympic history.
Fans worldwide have taken to social media, expressing support for Alysa Liu and her family. Many have praised her father’s unwavering commitment, recalling the early mornings, financial challenges, and emotional sacrifices that defined her journey to Olympic gold.
Meanwhile, supporters of Kaori Sakamoto argue that the athlete herself should not bear the consequences of her coach’s actions. They stress that Sakamoto has consistently demonstrated grace and professionalism throughout her 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 escalating further and reinforced a culture of accountability.
However, some voices within Japan’s skating community view the public nature of the dispute as damaging. They fear that the controversy could strain relationships between national federations and create tension ahead of upcoming ISU competitions.
Legal experts note that the $200,000 fine imposed by the International Skating Union (ISU) is one of the largest ever levied against a figure skating coach. The financial penalty underscores the seriousness of Nakano’s misconduct.
The incident has reignited broader conversations about conduct standards 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 shifts back to her historic Olympic achievement. Despite the turmoil, she has remained silent publicly, choosing instead to celebrate with her team and family in private.
Her father’s resilience has become a powerful symbol within the figure skating world. Many see him as embodying the sacrifices countless parents make to support young athletes chasing Olympic dreams.
The Japan Skating Federation has pledged full cooperation with the ISU investigation. Insiders suggest that further disciplinary measures could follow, depending on the findings 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 story highlights the fragile balance between fierce competition and human decency. The Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics showcased extraordinary talent, but they also revealed how quickly words can overshadow achievement.
Whether this episode becomes a turning point for stronger ethical guidelines within the International Skating Union (ISU) remains to be seen. What is certain is that the skating world will not forget the lessons learned from this turbulent Olympic chapter.
