Vyalbe: “We will be happy to participate in international competitions again. We are in touch with FIS”

President of the Russian Ski Federation (FLSR) Elena Vyalbe said that Russian athletes would be happy to return to the international arena, adding that the FLGR is in touch with the International Ski Federation (FIS) to resolve this issue.

On Thursday, VG published a statement by FIS Secretary General Michel Vion that the return of Russian and Belarusian skiers to the World Cup could happen in December. This decision can be made after the appropriate recommendation of the IOC. Vion also noted that if allowed, Russian and Belarusian athletes would probably go to the start in a neutral status.

– Good idea! What can I say? If they think so, then we will be happy to participate in the World Cup, in the World Championship, which will be held this season.

We are in touch with FIS representatives. On September 27, we will go to a meeting, we will meet with the FIS President and Secretary General. The best way to communicate is face-to-face. At the same time, we always hear from the FIS that everything will depend on the decision of the IOC. They will act according to the directive from above.

As for the neutral status, if it is the way we played at the last World Championship – under the flag of the FLGR or FIS, but without signing some declarations that some other federations are promoting, then yes, it is possible. But if it will be with the requirement to sign a declaration in which the athletes will actually have to renounce the country, then this issue will not even be considered, ”said Vyalbe, who was quoted by Match TV.

The World Ski Championships will be held in Planica (Slovenia) from February 21 to March 5, 2023.