Alexander Bolshunov won his second victory at the first stage of the Russian Cup in cross-country skiing at the beginning of the new season.
Bolshunov won the 15 km time trial in freestyle and also took first place in the speed skating race.
In August 2023, Bolshunov strained his back while training in Belarus. He missed the start in Khanty-Mansiysk. Russian national team coach Yuri Borodavko stated that the decision regarding Bolshunov’s performance will be made based on his health condition just before the competition.
Bolshunov won the World Cup twice and won the Tour de Ski. At the Olympic Games in Beijing, the Russian won five medals, including three gold. He was the flag bearer of the Russian team at the closing ceremony of the games.
Bolshunov, like all Russian skiers, was suspended from participating in the final World Cup races, ending the 2021/22 season early. He has not participated in international tournaments since then.
Former world champion explainedWhy Russian skiers were suspended.