Fridtjof Petzold, a German speed skater, has voiced strong criticism against the management of the German Speed Skating Association (DESG) following the conclusion of the speed skating competitions at the Winter Olympics in Milan. He specifically pointed out that Bundestrainer Alexis Contin had provided inadequate support to him and other skaters during the Games, indicating that this lack of support impacted their performances. Petzold noted a significant lack of willingness from Contin to engage with the athletes, which reveals underlying issues within the organization's coaching approach.

During the competition, Petzold and fellow skater Felix Maly were eliminated in the semifinals of the mass start event, which amplified Petzold’s concerns regarding the support provided to athletes. He highlighted a series of personal conflicts that arose after he left Contin's training group in Berlin following the previous season. While these issues were reportedly resolved before the current season began, Petzold felt that the promised commitment from the coaching staff was not honored, contributing to a feeling of neglect among the skaters.

This criticism raises important questions about athlete management and the overall effectiveness of the coaching staff within the DESG. Success at international competitions often hinges not only on the athletes’ skills but also on the support and guidance they receive from their coaches. Petzold's comments may prompt a reevaluation of the DESG's approach to athlete relations and management, potentially leading to changes that prioritize the well-being and performance of the skaters leading up to future competitions, including the 2026 Winter Olympics.