Alexei Ulanov (Russian: Алексей Уланов; born 15 July 1946) is a former Soviet pair skater and figure skating coach. He is best known for his competitive partnership with Irina Rodnina, with whom he won an Olympic gold medal at the 1972 Winter Games in Sapporo and a silver medal at the 1968 Winter Games in Grenoble. The pair also secured four World Championship titles (1970–1973) and three European Championship titles (1970–1972). After his partnership with Rodnina ended in 1972, Ulanov formed a new skating duo with Natalia Dubova, later becoming his wife. The pair competed internationally for several seasons before retiring from competition.
Early life and training
Ulanov was born in Moscow, Russian SFSR, Soviet Union. He began skating at a young age and trained under the Soviet sports system, developing his skills at the Dynamo Sports Club in Moscow.
Competitive career
Partnership with Irina Rodnina (1965–1972)
- 1968 Winter Olympics (Grenoble) – Silver medal
- 1972 Winter Olympics (Sapporo) – Gold medal
- World Championships: Gold (1970, 1971, 1972, 1973)
- European Championships: Gold (1970, 1971, 1972)
Ulanov and Rodnina were renowned for their technical precision and artistic presentation, contributing to the evolution of pair skating during the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Partnership with Natalia Dubova (1972–1976)
Following his split with Rodnina, Ulanov partnered with Natalia Dubova. The pair competed at the 1973 World Championships, placing 6th, and continued to represent the Soviet Union in international competitions until Ulanov's retirement from competitive skating in 1976.
Coaching career
After retiring from competition, Ulanov transitioned to coaching. Alongside Dubova, he coached several prominent skating teams, including the Soviet senior pairs and ice dancers. In the 1990s, the couple emigrated to the United States, where they continued coaching at various rinks, notably in New Jersey and California, influencing a generation of American skaters.
Personal life
Ulanov married Natalia Dubova, his former skating partner and a distinguished ice dancing coach. The couple has two children. Throughout his career and post‑competitive life, Ulanov has been involved in promoting figure skating both in Russia and abroad.
Legacy
Alexei Ulanov is recognized as a pivotal figure in the history of Soviet pair skating, having contributed to the sport's technical development and later shaping future talent through his coaching work. His Olympic and World Championship successes with Irina Rodnina remain notable achievements in figure skating archives.