Bolshunovam atsaka neitrālā sportista statusu

Russian Skiing Star Denied Neutral Athlete Status

Russian cross-country skiing star Alexander Bolshunov will not be allowed to return to international competition, even under a neutral athlete status, according to a report from DELFI. The decision means the 29-year-old Bolshunov is currently barred from all international matches, including the upcoming FIS Cross-Country World Cup season, which begins on November 27.

However, the International Ski Federation (FIS) expects the three-time Olympic champion might challenge the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), potentially allowing him to compete eventually. “Bolshunov was advised to wait until the next season, although he has already severed ties with CSKA,” an unnamed source told RIA Novosti, as reported by DELFI.

FIS Rules Form Basis for Decision

The denial comes as FIS reviewed the eligibility requirements for Russian and Belarusian athletes seeking neutral status this autumn. According to the new rules, an athlete cannot have current or past ties to the armed forces or security services of Russia or Belarus. The athlete must not have directly or indirectly supported the war in Ukraine after February 2022.

Additional requirements include compliance with anti-doping regulations and competing without national symbols. DELFI reported that FIS has granted the neutral status to 47 Russian cross-country skiers. news.inbox.lv noted that skiing was one of the sports where Russians had received favorable decisions to return as neutral athletes, but that FIS had tightened its requirements in the fall.

Previous Application Also Rejected

This is not the first time Bolshunov’s application for neutral status has been denied. The DELFI source confirmed his prior petition was also unsuccessful, indicating a consistent stance from the governing body.

news.inbox.lv reported that it is “expected the decision will be appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport,” reinforcing the likelihood of a protracted legal battle over his eligibility.

Bolshunov Misses World Cup Start

The immediate consequence is Bolshunov’s absence from the start of the World Cup season. The FIS’s expectation that he may seek arbitration at CAS points to the next likely step in this process.

For now, the 47 Russian skiers who did meet the criteria will be allowed to compete neutrally, creating a stark contrast within the Russian team. The situation remains fluid, and any official updates would likely come from FIS or CAS regarding the status of Bolshunov’s potential appeal.

“Slēpošana ir viens no tiem sporta veidiem, kurā krievi guvuši labvēlīgu lēmumu atgriešanai neitrālo atlētu vidū, taču Starptautiskā Slēpošanas federācija šoruden pārskatīja noteikumus.”

news.inbox.lv

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Alexander Bolshunov?

Alexander Bolshunov is a 29-year-old Russian cross-country skier and a three-time Olympic champion.

When is the next cross-country skiing World Cup season?

The FIS Cross-Country World Cup season is scheduled to begin on November 27.

What is the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)?

CAS is an independent institution that resolves legal disputes in the world of sports, often handling appeals against decisions made by sports federations.