Skiing WC is arranged in Planica between 21 February and 5 March. The secretary general of the International Skiing Federation now announces that it is not up to reconsider the autumn’s decision – and thus Russian and Belarusian athletes can stay at home.
The WC, which starts at the end of February, is the big highlight of the cross-country skiing season.
After the International Olympic Committee IOC recently opened the door to Russian and Belarusian participation in the upcoming Olympics, it has been discussed how it will affect the branch associations’ position on the matter.
Michel Vion, Secretary General of the International Ski Federation FI says now to SVT that it is not up to date with Russian and Belarusian athletes in the Skiing World Cup, which formally starts on February 21.
– It is very clear from Fis. We made a decision at a meeting in October that no Russians or Belarusians would be allowed to compete during the season, so that decision was made three months ago, says Vion.
Secretary General Michel Vion and Chairman Johan Eliasch.
Image: EPA-EFE/GIAN EHRENZELLER
Michel Vion, Johan Eliasch
However, Vion does not deliver any information regarding the 2023–24 season.
– We have said that we normally follow the IOC’s recommendation. But we have to wait until April for a decision on next season, says Vion.
