At the ski stadium in Toblach, Italy, the venue of the Tour de Ski race, another sensitive case connected with the participation of Russian representatives in international competitions is being solved.
31.12.2025 17:15
Photo: Instagram
Russian coach Igor Sorin.
Russian coach Igor Sorin, who guides the young cross-country skier Savelij Korostelov, has requested neutral status, but the International Skiing and Snowboarding Federation (FIS) has not yet granted it.
Nevertheless, Sorin moved around the race area – and not only as an ordinary spectator. The Swedish newspaper Expressen reported that the Russian coach is right at the stadium during the Tour de Ski. However, Sorin admitted in an interview with the newspaper that he must respect the current rules.
“I have no choice but to accept the rules. During the World Cup races, I can only be a spectator and stand among the fans. It’s bad for me, yes, but outside the arena I can function as a normal coach,” said Sorin.
But now comes another revelation. Other Swedish newspapers. Sportbladet – published information that Sorin was captured in a photo driving a car with an official accreditation permit issued for AIN – that is, for neutral athletes and members of their entourage.
This just raised questions about compliance, since Sora doesn’t have neutral status yet.
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FIS reacted quickly. According to the organization’s statement, the parking permit was immediately withdrawn.
At the same time, the federation confirmed that it cannot prohibit Sorin from moving in non-accredited parts of the area, i.e. in areas that are freely accessible to the public. However, entering the accredited zones and using the benefits intended for neutral teams does not belong to him.
The whole situation once again opens up the sensitive topic of the participation of Russian coaches and athletes in international competitions under a neutral flag, especially at a time when the rules are strictly followed and every detail is under the scrutiny of the media.
Savelij Korosteľov himself finished in the classic ninth place in Monday’s 10-kilometer race, and he currently ranks 13th in the overall Tour de Ski standings. The sporting achievements of the young Russian thus far remain in the shadow of the organizational and political tension that accompanies his team.
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