Many reacted strongly when International Ski Federation (FIS) Secretary General Michelle Vion recently opened up the possibility that Russian and Belarusian athletes could return to the World Cup this winter.

Last season, all Russian athletes were banned from all international competitions, due to the war in Ukraine.

– I must say that I miss FIS standing a little more clearly for itself, rather than creating uncertainty for both us and the Russian athletes. They looked a little wobbly. Instead they stand up for what they believe in, Kruger told NRK.

Norwegians are surprised that the association has not taken a clearer position.

The Norwegian Ski Association, for its part, is taking a stand. On Thursday, it became clear that no Norwegian representatives from the ski association would participate in the meeting where Russian or Belarusian representatives were present.

This was revealed in a press release from the ski association.

Creating uncertainty

Kruger said he couldn’t see what was different about the situation in Ukraine right now, meaning that it might be good to let the athletes go for the winter.

– I have to admit that I was surprised when I saw that FIS was suddenly so positive. There is no change in the conflict. It’s probably more of a sharpening than a softening there, Kruger said.

Recently, the International Biathlon Union decided to maintain the ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes. That was the kind of clarity Kruger wanted from his own association.

– Yes, I’m under the impression that there are other sports that take a clearer stance. Then I also believe that FIS should be able to do that, he said.

– A situation where, for example, they are allowed cross-country skiing, but not biathlon, would be very special.

Have informed the decision

The Secretary-General’s statement about a possible return to Russia sparked several reactions. Among other things, Coop – one of the main sponsors of the FIS – stated that they would step down if the federation allowed Russia’s participation.

FIS has announced that it will make a final decision on this matter towards the end of October.

– FIS is working with relevant parties to determine the next steps regarding the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in FIS competitions in the coming season. This will be on the agenda to be discussed by the FIS board at its next meeting at the end of October, FIS wrote in an email to NRK.

– If any decisions are made by other sports governing bodies, such as the IOC (International Olympic Committee), the FIS board will consider this during discussions.

FIS board member and former Norwegian ski president Erik Røste also believes that there is no indication of a change in the ban.

– Russia and Belarus are prohibited from international skiing. They’ve been since early March. In my opinion, sadly, nothing has changed to suggest that the ban should be lifted. Russia’s brutal attack on Ukraine requires a strong reaction, Rste told NRK.