The Swedes thought that the decision about Russian skiers had already been made.
But it’s not.
And the position of the stars is crystal clear.
– It would be a blow under the belt for a lot of people, says William Poromaa to Expressen.
Russian skaters have not been allowed to compete in the World Cup since the invasion of Ukraine. Swedish skiers have been far ahead in the ban on Russian skiers, and all have been clear that they do not want to stand on the starting line with Russian skiers, especially when some openly supported Vladimir Putin during the war.
Earlier in the autumn, Fis had a big autumn meeting, and then information came that a decision had been made to continue banning Russian (and Belarusian) skiers. But according to Expressen, that is not true. The newspaper claims that those who participated in the meeting do not have decision-making rights in the matter, which must instead be handled by the International Ski Federation’s highest board. They have a meeting today, and despite many indications that they will make the same decision, i.e. to continue suspending the Russian skaters, the Swedish stars are once again very clear about what they think.
Linn Svahn does say that it is sad that individual athletes find themselves in trouble, but is absolutely certain that she does not want to compete against Russian skaters.
– It is easy for me to say one day in October that I would boycott. There are no consequences for me here. But the consequence will be if I stand there in November in super shape and want to compete… then I just hope that I have as much backbone as now, she tells Expressen.
“A punch under the belt for everyone”
William Poromaa is also clear that he does not want to compete against Russian skaters in the premiere, which is now only a month away.
– It would be a blow under the belt for a lot of people. Very strange, says William Poromaa, who is supported by Calle Halfvarsson.
– It is far too close to the season for such a decision. That would be a disaster. At some point in the future, I think they should be allowed to come back, but not now.
Expressen has also been in contact with Mars Årjes, who is Sweden’s representative in the Fis meeting on Wednesday. He believes very little in a decision other than continued suspension.
– I think it would be extremely strange if there is any change in previous decisions, he says.
READ MORE: Calle Halfvarsson’s strong confession after the World Cup miss – now admits dark doubts: “Those thoughts will come”
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