Klimov reacts to the Russians' possible return to the World Cup
According to Sport.
Why this matters
The possible reinstatement of Russian jumpers in the Ski Jumping World Cup under a neutral flag raises questions about fan acceptance and support, especially in Poland. Jewgienij Klimow, one of the athletes involved, expressed concerns about his entry into the country, reflecting the tension between sport and politics. The situation is complex, given the history of support by some Russian athletes for the invasion of Ukraine, which generated adverse reactions in several federations.
Main conclusions
- Klimov reacts to the Russians' possible return to the World Cup.
- Evgéni Klimov comments on the scenario of the Russians' reintegration into the ski jumping World Cup under a neutral flag, praises the support of Polish fans and expresses concern about a possible ban on entry into Poland.
- Dopuścili Rosjanina from Pucharu Świata. Tak mówi o Polakach. 'Martwię się'.
The return of Russian jumpers to the ski jumping World Cup competitions, under the auspices of the FIS, has once again gained momentum and has already prompted a reaction from Evgéni Klimov. The Russian athlete, known for his declared support for Vladimir Putin, addressed the topic and revealed messages of encouragement that he says he receives from European fans — especially Polish ones —, at the same time that he confessed to being apprehensive about the possibility of being prevented from competing on Polish territory.
“European fans, including Polish ones, write me lots of warm words of support in private messages,” said Klimov in statements to the Russian newspaper Sport-Express, cited by the Polish press. The jumper also guaranteed that he is not an athlete who violates regulations, in an allusion to the new FIS guidelines.
According to what has been said, the FIS has decided to reopen the door to Russian athletes, for now under neutral status. In Russia, however, there is ambition to go further: Dmitry Svishchev, president of the Russian Ski and Snowboard Federation, admitted to the TASS agency his intention to present a more comprehensive proposal to the international federation.
The eventual reintegration takes place in a delicate context. It is recalled that the public support of some Russian athletes for the invasion of Ukraine generated firm positions in several national federations. In Poland, the local union had already demonstrated against the entry of athletes who supported the war. Faced with this scenario, Klimov did not hide his fear: “Of course I worry that the Poles might not let me in. These days, they might not let anyone, anywhere,” said the jumper, maintaining uncertainty about his participation in future stages in that country.
Poland has been one of the reference stages of the ski jumping calendar, where Klimov knows the environment well. It was precisely in Wisła that the Russian achieved his first victory in World Cup competitions, on November 18, 2018. At 32 years old, the athlete also has the Olympic silver won in Beijing 2022, in the mixed team competition — one of the most relevant marks in his history.
For now, it remains to be defined how the FIS will implement in practice the return of Russian athletes under a neutral flag and how local organizers will apply possible participation filters. Between the messages of support he says he receives and the apprehensions regarding visas and admissions, Klimov projects a return to the big stage surrounded by political and regulatory issues that go beyond the jumping ramps.
What happens next
With the FIS considering the reinstatement of Russian athletes, the situation is likely to evolve quickly, especially if more comprehensive proposals are put forward by the Russian Ski and Snowboard Federation. Klimov and other athletes will be attentive to the reactions of host countries, such as Poland, which has already spoken out against the entry of athletes who support the war. Klimov's future in the Ski Jumping World Cup will largely depend on public acceptance and federations' decisions.
Frequently asked questions
What happened to the Russian jumpers at the Ski Jumping World Cup?
Russian jumpers are being considered for a possible return to World Cup competitions under the auspices of the FIS.
Who confirmed the intention to reinstate the Russian athletes?
Dmitry Svishchev, President of the Russian Ski and Snowboard Federation, confirmed his intention to present a more comprehensive proposal to the international federation.
Why is the rule being discussed now?
Is this about the Russians for the World Cup?
The discussion arises in a context in which the FIS has decided to reopen the door to Russian athletes, initially under neutral status.
What changes could occur for Russian athletes at the World Cup?
Russian athletes could be reinstated in competition, but still under a neutral status, and there are ambitions for more comprehensive proposals.
What concerns does Jewgienij Klimov have regarding his participation in Poland?
Klimov expressed fears that he may be barred from competing in Poland due to the local union's stance against athletes who supported the war in Ukraine.