A wave of new Russian athletes has received approval to compete internationally, and new updates regarding Alexander Bolshunov’s status are emerging.

Alexander Bolshunov won five medals at the 2022 Olympics, including three golds. However, he has not competed internationally under FIS regulations since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. 

When Russian and Belarusian athletes were given the opportunity to apply for neutral status last year, only two cross-country skiers were granted it. This year, many more have received the green light. 

So far, Bolshunov has not been among them, but both Russian Ski President Dmitri Svishchev and Bolshunov’s coach believe that this will soon change. 

“Around 200 athletes are working on applications for neutral status in FIS. Among them is, of course, (Alexander) Bolshunov,” Svishchev told Russian media. 

New update

Last week, FIS confirmed that they are processing Bolshunov’s application and have requested additional documentation. His coach has now confirmed that they have submitted new papers.

FIS’s conditions include that he must sever all ties with the Russian military and oppose any military actions. The 29-year-old has now withdrawn from the Russian army, and reports from Russia indicate that progress is being made.

“Alexander’s chances of achieving neutral status will increase this year. Bolshunov has withdrawn from the Russian army and now meets the requirements set by FIS. His chances have increased significantly,” coach Jurij Borodavko told Sport24.

The cross-country star was appointed captain of the National Guard by Vladimir Putin in 2022, just before the war broke out, and these military ties have been viewed as problematic.

Also Read – Ski star granted green light – Bolshunov could be next

Expecting more stars to get approval

Earlier this fall, FIS adopted new guidelines for neutral status for athletes from Russia and Belarus. So far, over 150 individuals from the two countries have received approval, including 96 athletes. Russian Ski President Dmitri Svishchev expects that more will be approved as the season starts at the end of November.

“I believe that many of our biggest stars will receive approval from FIS very soon,” Svishchev stated.

Svishchev also mentioned that Russia will seek to host FIS events in the country, but he does not expect this to happen anytime soon.  

Read More: Former Junior World Champion among the Russians now given the green light by FIS

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