Nordiq Canada News
Statement Regarding IOC Decision on the Participation of Russian and Belarusian Athletes
Nordiq Canada is proud to share the following statement by Canada Ski and Snowboard, of which it is a member.
CSS Statement Regarding IOC Decision on the Participation of Russian and Belarusian Athletes
July 9, 2026
Canada Ski & Snowboard (CSS) expresses strong support for the position articulated today by Adam van Koeverden, related to the International Olympic Committee’s decision to reinstate Russian athletes for international competition.
“The countries of Russia and Belarus should not be represented in international sports competitions while Russia’s illegal and unjustifiable full-scale invasion against Ukraine continues.”
CSS has been clear and consistent in its stance in not supporting the participation of Russian or Belarusian athletes, particularly under national flags or as “neutral” individuals, in FIS-sanctioned events, including the Olympic and Paralympic Games, while those states stay actively involved in an illegal war on the country of Ukraine. This position reflects our commitment to peace, human rights, and the integrity of sport, and responds directly to the ongoing war in Ukraine, which continues to inflict profound suffering and constitutes a violation of international law.
CSS remains aligned with a majority of snow sport federations that continue to oppose Russian and Belarusian athlete participation. We also reiterate our concerns related to governance, transparency, and the integrity of anti-doping processes should any reinstatement be considered.
Although sport can provide a beacon towards global understanding and unity, sport does not exist in isolation from global events. Decisions made by international sport bodies carry moral weight and signal the values we collectively uphold. At this moment, CSS believes unity with the Ukrainian people, respecting the rule of international law, and clarity of principle are essential.
CSS will continue to advocate for a position that reflects our values, supports international law, and protects the integrity of competition. We support Secretary van Koeverden in his stated position on this, and encourage the FIS to maintain strong, principled leadership on this issue in the same spirit.
Sincerely,
Beckie Scott, Chair, CEO Nordiq Canada
Dustin Heise, Vice-Chair, CEO Snowboard Canada
Peter Judge, Treasurer, CEO Freestyle Canada
Therese Brisson, Secretary General, CEO Alpine Canada
Drew Edwards, GM Ski Jumping Canada