The backlash comes after the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) decided to maintain the ban on athletes from Russia and Belarus from the World Cup and other international competitions for the upcoming winter. The decision also effectively rules out the 2026 Winter Olympics, despite the International Olympic Committee (IOC) allowing athletes from those countries to compete under a neutral flag.

Klæbo was quick to express his approval of FIS’s ruling, saying he was relieved and reiterating his clear stance on the issue.

Russian officials lash out at Klæbo

His remarks have deeply angered several high-profile Russian sports figures. Former Olympic biathlon champion Dmitry Vasilyev fired back with a scathing comment aimed directly at Klæbo after the Norwegian supported the continued suspension.

Also Read: FIS says NO to Russia

“At the next Olympics, without Russians, they (Norway) will try to share the medals among themselves and set records for the number of medals won, so that they will never be beaten again. And they don’t even try to hide it. But we know what those medals are really worth. It’s all pure doping – that’s the only way they can win,” Vasilyev told RIA Novosti.

“They’ve buried themselves in paperwork and therapeutic use exemptions, as if they’re all sick and allowed to take banned substances. But it’s hypocrisy, lies, fraud – call it what you want. I’m sure their dishonest charade will be exposed. Then we’ll see how the Norwegians react when their gold medals fade to dust.”

Frustration among athletes

While Russian officials have resorted to harsh words, many athletes from the country have reacted with disappointment and sadness. Several of them were barely adults when the war against Ukraine began and say they do not support it or President Putin.

Earlier this week, before the FIS vote, four-time Olympic champion Alexander Tikhonov sparked outrage when he told Russian media that Finland should be bombed to pieces, after the Finnish Ski Association publicly supported keeping Russian athletes banned. Tikhonov claimed it would serve as a lesson to other nations that back Finland’s position.

Only hours after FIS announced its decision, Russian officials confirmed they plan to appeal the ruling.

Read More – Russians furious after FIS decision: “We will use all available means”

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