Skiers and snowboarders from Russia, Belarus get neutral status terms from FIS for new season

The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) granted athletes from Russia and Belarus a neutral status for the upcoming season, allowing them to compete in FIS events. However, they must sign a neutrality declaration based on specific principles set by the organization. FIS warned that athletes, coaches, and officials could face sanctions if they violate the neutrality policy.

The ruling follows a December Court of Arbitration for Sport decision that lifted a near four-year ban on Russian skiers from international competition, stemming from the war in Ukraine. This renewal of the neutral athlete policy applies to individual events in Alpine, cross-country, and freestyle skiing, as well as snowboarding, with the Winter season commencing next month.

FIS emphasized that no country symbols, such as flags, anthems, or uniforms, are permitted. Russian athletes and team officials may still encounter difficulties obtaining visas to enter some European countries hosting World Cup races.