Two-time Olympic champion Vic Wild spoke with socialbites.ca about how he views the choices made by international sports federations regarding Russian athletes. He emphasized that, regardless of anyone’s opinion on those decisions, they are in place and it falls on him to decide how to respond. The debates about the legitimacy of those rulings only left him feeling saddened. After a decade in Russia, he learned to channel his energy toward what he can influence. That mindset keeps him focused during moments when outcomes hinge on his own actions, while acceptance becomes the only option when they do not.
Wild also outlined his ongoing plan to compete in the Olympic Games scheduled for Milan in 2026. He described a journey that began with a strong readiness to retire, a decision brought into sharp relief by his experiences in Russia. Since then, he has observed significant changes in his environment and recognizes that pursuing a victory at the 2026 Games could be a meaningful next chapter for him, both personally and professionally. He believes that chasing Olympic success in 2026 remains a viable and worthy pursuit given the current circumstances.
In 2012, Vic Wild, an American by birth, obtained Russian citizenship and began competing for Russia. The International Ski Federation then issued a ruling that barred Russian snowboarders from certain world championships and Olympic events. The implications of this decision influenced his career trajectory and shaped the opportunities available to him within the sport. This period marked a turning point that connected his athletic ambitions with broader geopolitical and federation-level decisions affecting the sport of snowboarding.
This broader context helps explain Wild’s pragmatic approach: concentrate on what is controllable, maintain competitiveness, and pursue goals that align with personal values and long-term plans. The athlete continues to train, compete, and evaluate the evolving landscape of international competition, recognizing that success ultimately depends on preparation, resilience, and the ability to adapt to changing rules and environments.
Cited from an interview with Vic Wild, this account reflects the athlete’s perspective on leadership decisions in international sport and how those decisions influence athletes’ careers and choices about legacy. The interview also highlights the importance of focusing on direct actions rather than external controversies when progress is possible. Wolf-like resolve in the face of uncertainty remains a hallmark of Wild’s approach as he moves toward the next Olympic chapter.