The International Biathlon Union stated that there was no problem with Norwegian athletes appearing on the podium while displaying the Ukrainian flag. The federation’s stance was reported by VseProSport, and it was described as in line with the current statutes and rules. The IBU has previously allowed solidarity gestures and this incident was understood as compliant with the governing framework rather than a breach of policy.
During the pursuit at the World Cup stage in Oberhof, Germany, three Norwegian biathletes—Sturla Lægreid, Tarjei Boe, and Johannes Boe—shared the podium. Ukrainian Dmitry Pidruchny, who finished sixth, carried his country’s flag at the flower ceremony, and several Norwegians joined him for photographs as a sign of solidarity.
In February 2022, the International Olympic Committee urged international federations to bar Russian and Belarusian athletes from competing, a move that led the International Biathlon Union to suspend Russian biathletes from its events.
A former Russian Biathlon Cup champion expressed a concern echoed by some competitors: the fear of finishing a race without a flag to celebrate national pride, underscoring how symbols influence athletes’ sense of identity on the field.