Athletes from Russia and Belarus have been permitted to compete under a neutral status for the upcoming season by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation. The governing body stated that individuals from these countries can participate in FIS competitions by signing a declaration of neutrality adhering to specified principles, with the possibility of facing sanctions for non-compliance.
In a ruling last December by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, Russian skiers were granted permission to partake in international events after a nearly four-year ban amidst the conflict in Ukraine. This ruling enabled them to join World Cup competitions in disciplines like Alpine, cross-country, freestyle skiing, and snowboarding in pursuit of qualifying for the upcoming Milan Cortina Olympics in February.
The FIS ruling council has extended the neutral athlete policy for the forthcoming winter season set to commence next month. The participation of athletes is limited to individual events, contingent upon the absence of any national symbols like flags, anthems, or uniforms, as outlined by FIS.
Despite these developments, Russian athletes and team officials may still encounter difficulties in securing visas to enter certain European countries that host World Cup races.