Ivan Yakimushkin, who earned a silver at the 2022 Olympic Games, commented that Norwegian skiers appear unconcerned about the absence of Russian athletes from international events. The remark was reported by Sport Express.
“The light did not break for us like a wedge. They don’t care whether we’re present or not. The French finish third in the sprints, and many other competitors challenge them. The Norwegians arrived later to the scene, and none of the top six give up the fight when racing”, Yakimushkin explained. This perspective reflects a broader sentiment among athletes navigating sanctions and altered competition calendars. (Source: Sport Express)
It is recalled that the International Ski Federation (FIS) imposed a ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes from international competitions through the end of the prior season, and the measure was later extended. The sanctions effectively sidelined Russian competitors from marquee events and altered the rhythm of the World Cup circuit.
During the 2021/22 World Cup season, Russians did not participate in the final stages, and the 2022/23 season opened without them on the world stage. The focus shifted toward national and regional meets, where athletes continued to train and compete while adjusting strategies to maintain form and visibility.
Elena Vyalbe, former president of the Russian Ski Racing Federation, stated that no member of the national team intends to switch sports nationality or seek a permit to compete under a different flag. The stance underscores commitments within the federation to preserve national representation as sanctions and geopolitical tensions unfold. (Source: Sport Express)