The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) has announced today that a complete fluor wax ban will not come into effect until the 2023/2024 season.

FIS announced in a press release that a full fluor wax ban would be postponed by a year to give more time for developing the fluor test device. 

“Extensive testing of the fluor detection device, together with experts from National Federations and the International Biathlon Union (IBU), led to the conclusion that more time was needed to check new fluor-free waxes to provide accurate results. The testing of these new products is underway,” informs FIS and continues:

“FIS will increase the systematic collection and testing of samples during the upcoming season 2022-23. The close cooperation with the National Federations and the IBU will continue to help to further refine the detection system and define the practical implementation processes and regulations which will ensure the fair implementation of a full ban of all fluor waxes for the season 2023-2024. The ban is intended to reduce risks to human health and the environment coming from chemicals found in fluorocarbon products used in the preparation of skis.”

At the same time, the International Biathlon Union (IBU) also announced the same decision of postponing the fluor wax ban for another season.