2017 cross-country skiing world champion Federico Pellegrino announced the suspension of Russian athletes. His words guide the way Fondo Italy.
“Yes, I critically assessed the Scandinavians’ attitude towards the admission of Russians, because since one of the main principles of the Olympic Charter is the independence of sport from politics, they persistently demand some kind of ethical sanctions that do not exist.
I would like to reiterate once again that the International Olympic Committee calls on international federations to carefully consider the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in terms of security and the normal functioning of the competitions.
At the moment, the International Ski Federation is not ready to open its doors to Russians and Belarusians because it would be risky, given what is happening in the world.
In other sports where safety is simpler, such as tennis, accepting Russians is not a problem.
It is normal for athletes to have their own political views. I condemn all the conflicts taking place in the world right now. But our main guide must remain the Olympic Charter,” said the Italian.
In the spring of 2022, the International Ski Federation (FIS), following the recommendations of the IOC, decided to suspend Russian and Belarusian athletes from international competitions until the end of the season.
On October 25, a meeting of the FIS was held, and members of the organization came to the conclusion that Russian and Belarusian athletes will be suspended from participation in the Cross-Country World Cup in the 2023/24 season.
Previously Bolshunov happened winner of the race against time.