MOSCOW, June 16 Norway skier Even Nortug, brother of two-time Olympic champion Petter Nortug, said that competitions with Russians make cross-country skiing more interesting. Previously, Nortug Jr. said that he would not like to see Russian skiers and their symbols in competitions until the end of the conflict in Ukraine. His statement caused a negative reaction in Russia.
"I know that Russians have one view on this issue, and then I really don't care what they think about it. At least it has nothing to do with competitions, because I know that it would be better for cross-country skiing if Russia participated in them. We need these competitions with Russia to make the sport interesting", — quotes Nortuga Nettavisen.
The International Ski Federation (FIS), against the backdrop of the situation in Ukraine, first deprived Russia of the right to host the World Cup Final in Tyumen, and then decided not to allow athletes from Russia and Belarus to participate in competitions under the auspices of the organization. The decision was indefinite until further notice.