The Swedish Ski Association has welcomed the International Ski and Snowboard Federation’s (FIS) decision to continue excluding Russian and Belarusian athletes from international competitions, including the upcoming Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

Earlier this week, FIS confirmed that athletes from Russia and Belarus will remain barred from all FIS events this winter. The decision, taken after a lengthy Council meeting, means they will also be ineligible to qualify for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, as FIS declined to adopt the “Individual Neutral Athlete” (AIN) pathway proposed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Also Read: FIS says no to Russia

“A clear stance for sport’s values”

In a statement, the Swedish Ski Association (SSF) expressed strong support for the FIS position, calling it an important stand for the values of sport.

“We have always been clear: as long as the war in Ukraine continues, Russian and Belarusian skiers should not participate in international FIS competitions,” said Pernilla Bonde, Secretary General of the Swedish Ski Association.

“The FIS decision is completely in line with our position.”

Bonde emphasized that sport carries both influence and responsibility:

“Sports have a strong voice and a responsibility. By standing up for our values, we show what sports are really about – community, democracy, and fair play.”

The Swedish Ski Association, together with the other Nordic associations and the Swedish Sports Confederation, has actively advocated for maintaining the suspension and continues to work for an ethical, inclusive sporting environment.

Nordic unity – Russian anger

The Nordic countries have remained united in their stance since the start of the war in Ukraine, with many athletes also speaking out. Sweden’s Linn Svahn previously stated that she would refuse to participate in the Olympics if Russian or Belarusian athletes were allowed to return.

Also Read – Read to boycott Olympics: “Then I don’t want to compete”

Meanwhile, the Russian Ski Federation reacted sharply to the decision, calling it “political discrimination” and announcing plans to challenge it legally. Olympic champion Alexander Bolshunov and his teammates remain excluded, with Russian star Veronika Stepanova voicing her frustration on social media.

“FIS certainly knows how to create drama on a consistent level,” she wrote, later adding that she would “pay the price” for standing by her country.

The Russian Ski Federation said it would “use all available means” to fight the decision, including taking the case to court.

Read More – Russian furious after FIS decision: “We will use all available means”

In line with other Federations

By maintaining the ban, FIS aligns with the International Biathlon Union (IBU), which decided in August to continue excluding Russian and Belarusian athletes from its competitions.

The Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will take place from February 6 to 22, 2026.

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