Swedish Ski Stars Encounter Russian Skiers: ‘I Was Surprised’

Swedish Ski Stars Encounter Russian Skiers: ‘I Was Surprised’

Originally published in Sveriges Radio on February 19, 2025

Swedish ski stars recently encountered Russian skiers while on location in Italy. According to the athletes, including Emma Ribom and Jonna Sundling, they were taken aback by the unexpected presence of the Russian competitors.

The Russian skiers had been training in secret at the same venue where the Swedish athletes – who are preparing for the World Championships – are located. The encounter was particularly surprising given that Russian athletes will not be permitted to participate in the World Championships in Trondheim, set to begin in one week, as a result of the ongoing war in Ukraine.

The incident has sparked discussion among the Swedish team, with Jonna Sundling remarking on the oddity of the situation in light of the ongoing debates regarding Olympic participation.