Three-time Olympic champion Russian skier Alexander Bolshunov expressed his disappointment that Russian national team will not be able to participate in international competitions this season.
The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) has suspended Russians and Belarusians from final starts of the 2021/22 season due to the situation in Ukraine. In October, the FIS Council extended the suspension of the Russians for the 2022/23 season.
– Of course, I am disappointed that we will not be able to participate in the World Cup and the World Championship in Planica. Athletes now going to Ruka may be able to put themselves in our shoes. I would like to see their reaction. It’s time for the West to stop blaming us for everything,” said the athlete, whose words runs the Norwegian TV channel TV2 .
– The medals at the world championships will be decided without a fight, just look at the results of last winter. Of course, I often think that I will not be able to compete for world championship medals. It is difficult to accept the fact that Russian athletes at the World Championships in Planica will not compete, but at home, in Russia. I’m not in my best shape yet, but I started the season well. I’m sure the form has improved,” Bolshunov added.
– What do you think, when will you find your rival Johannes Klebo on track?
– I do not know. I just know that I’m ready! Bolshunov summed up.
Bolshunov is 25 years old, he won three Olympic gold medals at the 2022 Games, in addition, he won the world championship and won the World Cup twice.
The first stage of the current season’s World Cup begins in Ruka (Finland) on November 25. The Slovenian Planica World Championship will take place from February 21 to March 5.
Source : MatchTV
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