The head of the cross-country skiing committee at the International Ski Federation (FIS), Norwegian Vegard Ulvang, spoke out against Russian athletes at the final stages of the World Cup. His words are reported by NRK.
The head of the committee urged not to allow the Russians to the stages in Norway. “This decision should have been taken by the FIS, otherwise it should have been made by Norway as the organizer of the stages. If the FIS does not agree with this, let them take the World Cup stages from us, ”said Ulvang. He noted that this is a risk that the Norwegians must take in order to force the international federation into action.
On February 26, the board of the Norwegian Ski Federation opposed the participation of Russian athletes in the upcoming competitions in the country. The organization said that they discussed the situation between Russia and Ukraine and how it affects the upcoming stages of the World Cup and the World Championships in Norway. “The message to Russia and Russian athletes is very clear: we do not want your participation,” the Norwegians said.
On February 25, Russian skiers were banned from performing under the country’s flag. It is noted that the athletes will continue to compete under their own name and with the name of the country, but at all official events, including award ceremonies, the FIS flag and anthem will be used. Also, Russia was deprived of the right to host the finals of the World Cup in cross-country skiing, which was to be held in Tyumen on March 18-20.
Source: Lenta
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