President of the Russian Biathlon Union (RBU) Viktor Maygurov Speaking to , he expressed the view that the decision of the International Fencing Federation (FIE) to approve the return of Russian and Belarusian athletes to competitions under its auspices could prompt other federations to take similar decisions, notably the International Biathlon Union (IBU).
On Friday, the head of the Russian Fencing Federation (FFR), Ilgar Mammadov, told that the FIE Congress had decided to allow Russian athletes, teams and officials to participate in international competitions.
– What is the relationship between the RRF and the IBU?
— For the moment, we have no international agenda. Although we have initiated this several times with Andrian Tsybulsky. Unfortunately, I must say that the IBU is the most conservative federation, which is the first to introduce some kind of ban and the last to look around to take the opposite decision. The fact that the International Fencing Federation (FIE) has approved the return of the Russian athletes will be a good boost for everyone else.
– The situation in world biathlon may converge on a local rivalry between Norway, Sweden and Germany. But what about the rest?
– You’re right. If we take the current season, then there are 3-4 countries competing against each other, and it seems like everything else doesn’t exist at all. I think it clearly doesn’t sit well with the IBU. One way or another, but it is the ratings and TV shows, on which the entire budget of the IBU depends.
– Does the SBR pay dues?
— Our membership is now suspended, so our money is minimal — 500 euros. No, we don’t pay.
“But the IBU sells the broadcast rights to Russia. It turns out that they live to some extent on Russian money?
– Yes, with the money of Russian viewers who pay for certain services. I think you know better how much this package costs. I’m a bit immersed in this, but this money is not small.
– Let’s say someone from the IBU wants to invite Russia and Belarus to the World Cup. But questions will arise with the import of cartridges, rifles and opposition from NATO countries. Indeed, what is it so far from being a positive solution?
– I think that if a fundamental decision is made, we will face all of the above. The main thing is that there is a decision on the return of Russian and Belarusian athletes to the international calendar. We look forward with optimism. Our athletes are in excellent shape, we don’t have a permanent leader, like in international biathlon. Every day the leader changes, there are surprises, great intrigues,” Maygurov said on .
Watch the live broadcast of the men’s mass start as part of the PARI Commonwealth Cup on the channel, as well as on the matchtv.ru and sportbox.ru websites right now.
Source : MatchTV
I am Sandra Jackson, a journalist and content creator with extensive experience in the news industry. I have been working in the news media for over five years. During this time, I have worked as an author and editor at various outlets producing high-quality content that attracts readers from different demographics.
