The International Ski Federation Council has extended the suspension of Russian and Belarusian athletes from taking part in international competitions. The official statement confirms that the current policy, which bars Russian and Belarusian athletes as well as officials from federation events, will stay in force until further notice.
Elena Vyalbe, head of the Russian Ski Racing Federation, indicated on May 23 that the FIS is planning to push back the admission of Russians until September, a decision that would keep the country on the sidelines for the foreseeable future. This development comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and the ongoing debate about how neutrality and participation should be handled in global sport.
During the Executive Committee meeting of the International Olympic Committee in late March, it was suggested that Russians could compete under a neutral status provided they do not actively support hostilities. The recommendation reflects a broader conversation about balance between political realities and the athletes who strive to compete on the world stage.
Historically, the FIS had already moved to exclude Russian and Belarusian representatives from international events in the spring of 2022, applying the measure through the end of the 2021/22 season. That decision was subsequently extended on October 22, 2022, applying the suspension to the following season as well. The ongoing policy demonstrates the federation’s stance on conflicts and their impact on international sport, as well as the legal and ethical considerations involved in athlete eligibility during times of crisis.
In related remarks, Nancy Feser, who oversees internal affairs in Germany, signaled a potential risk to visa issuance for Russian athletes if the IOC permits their participation under neutral status. This statement underscores how national governments, sporting bodies, and international organizations interact when determining the conditions under which athletes may compete abroad.