The Ski Federations of Finland and Norway have opposed the return of Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under the auspices of the International Ski Federation (FIS).
Earlier, FIS General Secretary Michel Wion said there were plans to “open the doors” of the World Cup to Russia and Belarus in December.
– The position of the Finnish Ski Association regarding allowing Russian athletes to return to international competitions is a definite “no”. The reasons that led to their withdrawal have not changed, so a softening of the position can hardly be expected. Sport cannot be considered a separate part of society, – quotes the statement of the head of the organization Markku Haapasalmi Iltalehti.
FIS board member Eric Reste said Vion’s announcement surprised him.
The FIS followed the recommendations of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in March and suspended the Russians and Belarusians from international competition until the end of the season. In July, the suspension was extended until the end of the summer season. The FIS is expected to make a decision on the admission of athletes from both countries in early October.
— I don’t know, and I’m waiting for more information from the FIS. I don’t see the situation changing after the decision to suspend the Russians, said Espen Bjervig, manager of the Norwegian cross-country team.
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.
