Uncertainty continues over whether Russian and Belarusian athletes will be cleared to participate at the upcoming Winter Olympics. Swedish star Linn Svahn has made her position clear: she is prepared to boycott if they are on the start line.

The International Ski Federation (FIS) held its autumn meeting last week in Zurich, Switzerland, where the issue of Russia’s and Belarus’s suspension was expected to be addressed. However, no decision was taken, and the matter has been postponed.

“I don’t know why they postponed that decision – we just got the message during the week that this was the case,” says Swedish national team manager Anders Byström to Expressen.

Read More: FIS postpones Russia and Belarus decision

“The world situation has not changed”

Linn Svahn, 25, has long been outspoken against allowing Russian and Belarusian skiers to return to competition.

“The world situation has not changed, so I think it’s uncomfortable that people are wavering on this issue,” Svahn told Expressen and added, “If you open that door even a little, it will soon be kicked wide open.”

Ready to boycott

When asked directly if she would compete at the Olympics, should Russian and Belarusian athletes be allowed, Svahn was clear:

“If you ask me here and now, the answer is that then I don’t want to compete.”

At the same time, Svahn admitted her feelings could be tested once the Games arrive.

“I don’t know how I’ll feel if I’m standing on the Olympic start line and they are there. Maybe I’ll be in top form – and I’ve never won a championship medal.”

Still, she hopes she will have the courage to stand firm if the situation arises.

“But I can only hope I’ll have enough backbone in that moment. Because the last thing I want is to lose my backbone in a matter like this – some things are bigger than sport,” she said.

Also Read: Program for cross-country skiing at the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics

Are you interested in traditional cross-country skiing? Click HERE and read more about it.

As a member of ProXCskiing.com, you get full access to all content on the site. Also, live streaming of Ski Classics events with English commentaries is available.

When you become part of one of the World’s leading XC ski communities, you will receive many exclusive offers all year round.

REGISTER HERE AS A MEMBER