Li steps down as short-track coach

China's Winter Olympics pioneer being replaced by her top protege

Legendary speed skater Li Yan is no longer the head coach of the national short-track team after a management reshuffle of China's skating program.

With the 2022 Winter Olympics approaching, the decision announced on Thursday came as a surprise. Li is transitioning from the coaching post to serve in a supportive role as chairwoman of the China Skating Association.