Russian athletics chief Valentin Balakhnichyov said that the decision came after discussions between the pair whilst they were together as a part of the Russian delegation in Zurich in December successfully bidding to host the 2018 football World Cup.

"The problem is it gets quite cold inside the arena in the winter, making it very difficult to train," he said.

"Also, the running track is quite old and needs to be replaced.

"I was surprised how smoothly the talks have gone, I know that Abramovich had already asked his people to find out what has to be done and how much it would cost.

"Hopefully, the work could be completed over the summer."

John Mann, a spokesman for the Russian oligarch, said: "Yes, it's true that Yelena has approached Roman for help and the talks are ongoing."

The Russian athlete reunited with former coach Yevgeny Trofimov earlier this month after a series of poor performances, parting company with Vitaly Petrov in the process.

Balakhnichyov added that the new arena would also help other Russian athletes to improve their performances, such as Olympic champions Tatyana Lebedeva, the long and triple jump gold medallist, and high jumper Yelena Slesarenko.

"Rebuilding the Volgograd arena should help not only Isinbayeva but all other athletes who train there, and we have many others who may follow in their footsteps," he said.

"We also have athletes from the local youth sports academy who regularly train there, so [the] Ministry will also get involved."

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
August 2010: London 2012 is the big one, claims rejuvenated Isinbayeva
July 2010: Isinbayeva to miss rest of 2010 and will return next February
April 2010: Isinbayeva to take break from athletics but promises to be back soon
March 2010: Drained Isinbayeva ready to take a break
November 2009: Isinbayeva to compete only three times in indoor season