Hungary's two biggest stars in short track speed skating, Liu Shaolin Sándor Liu Shaolin and Liu Shaoang, are preparing for next season in China. However, it is unclear whether this will change the identity of the country they represent.
The most important reason for the Decision of the Hungarian Olympic Champions Liu Brothers is inseparable from their Chinese coach Zhang Jinglina. The head coach, who played a key role in helping Hungary win medals in short track speed skating, left Hungary after 12 years to coach for the Chinese national team.
After the news of Zhang Jing's departure in mid-July came to light, Lajos Kósa, president of the Hungarian Skating Association, admitted that the Liu brothers had been seriously affected by the departure of the head coach because they had a very close relationship. New head coach Ákos Bánhidi also said it was not surprising that Zhang Jing's departure would have an impact on Shaolin and Shao Ang.
Chairman Kósa revealed that Zhang Jing received an irresistible offer from China, and the current head coach Bánhidi said: "I am sorry that the result has turned out to be like this," he said, adding that the original team was composed of the Liu brothers, Zhang Jing, and another national team coach and him, and since then, the team has missed the most important people. As he put it, "If they think it's good, train with Zhang Jing and we'll help them." We have to find a way for the players to continue to maintain their high level – I am a partner for any solution. I'm with them, by their side. ”
The Liu brothers were silent at the time, and now they have announced in Hungarian, English and Chinese that they have returned to China to begin preparations for war training. "15 years of cooperation, many challenges, many difficulties, the most memorable is the moment of our common success. In addition to sports, Lina also taught us life, which is why we feel the greatest love for her and unconditional trust in her. So we decided to start preparing for this year together. Now we will be away for a while, we will not give up and you will see us soon! ”
The Liu brothers did not mention a change of national identity, but it would not be surprising if that were the case. Liu Shaolin once told reporters that after the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics — when they won the men's relay — they were asked if they would stay in China, when they were trained by Zhang Jing at home.