In a telephone interview with the newspaper, Välbe says that the change is happening because the International Skiing and Snowboarding Federation does not want Russian leaders to participate on site. On May 24, Fi’s board will decide whether Russians and Belarusians can compete in the World Cup next season.
— We received an offer to participate online, but without speaking and voting rights. So why should we participate?
“Booked flight and hotel”
The Russian skiing summit adds that Fis has not explained why they do not want Russia represented at the meetings.
The spring meeting is arranged in Dubrovnik, Croatia. It starts on Wednesday and runs until Friday.
— We had booked flights and hotels and everything. But now there will be nothing, says Välbe to the Norwegian newspaper.
A few weeks ago, Välbe was determined to attend the meeting, according to the news agency RIA.
— We are members of the International Federation and have received an invitation to this event. I am ready to talk to anyone, she told the news agency.
May affect the Swedish Olympic application
Sweden is investigating the possibilities of hosting the Olympics in 2030. However, if Fis allows Russians and Belarusians to compete in the World Cup next season, it could have a negative impact on a possible Swedish Olympic application. That’s what Karin Mattsson, chairman of the Swedish Skiing Association, fears:
— The issue of Russian and Belarusian participation is incredibly important to link to the Olympic issue. It would create a big uphill battle for domestic opinion and make it difficult for our politicians to wholeheartedly support this if we get the wrong decision on that issue, she says.