Norwegian journalist Jan Petter Saltvedt said updated FIS eligibility rules may be insufficient for Olympic cross-country skiing champion Alexander Bolshunov to return to competition.
Speaking to Russian news agency RIA Novosti, Saltvedt evaluated the revised guidelines issued by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation governing how athletes from Russia and Belarus can compete in international tournaments.
Saltvedt noted that while the revised terms might fall short for Bolshunov specifically, the updated criteria open the possibility for a larger number of Russian cross-country skiers to compete at World Cup stages during the upcoming season.
Updated eligibility criteria for Russian athletes
The policy update follows a decision by FIS to remove a clause from its regulations that previously prohibited athletes belonging to CSKA and other sports societies affiliated with the armed forces from participating in competitions. Under the new edition of the document, tournament bans apply only to athletes who voluntarily entered into a contract with the armed forces or national security organs of Russia or Belarus.
Before modifying the military affiliation rules, FIS had announced the admission of Russian athletes to tournaments for the 2026-2027 season under neutral status. The governing body also stated it would conduct a repeat check on athletes whose applications for neutral status had been previously rejected.
Background on international skiing bans
Alexander Bolshunov is a three-time Olympic champion who won gold medals at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, where he dominated the men's cross-country skiing events. As one of the most successful competitors in international winter sports, his status has been a central focus since sports governing bodies restricted Russian participation in 2022.
CSKA, historically known as the Central Sports Club of the Army, is a major Russian sports organization that has long maintained formal ties with military and state security structures. The removal of the blanket restriction on members of military-linked sports societies eliminates a significant barrier for many Russian skiers seeking neutral status certification, as many Russian winter athletes are registered members of such clubs.
What comes next for cross-country skiers
The International Ski and Snowboard Federation, based in Switzerland, is the international governing body overseeing competitive cross-country skiing, alpine skiing, ski jumping, freestyle skiing, and snowboarding events globally. Athletes approved under its neutral framework compete without national flags, anthems, or state emblems on their equipment and uniforms.
With FIS preparing for the 2026-2027 competition schedule, the federation will continue reviewing neutral status applications ahead of upcoming World Cup stages. Further decisions on individual athlete eligibility are expected as national federations submit updated documentation under the revised regulations.
