Disqualified Olympic star Jørgen Graabak triggered rule change in Nordic combined

Disqualified Olympic star Jørgen Graabak triggered a rule change in Nordic combined events after losing his start number during a trial competition in Trondheim. Under the new rule, Graabak would have been able to compete for gold even without his original start number, according to FIS race director Lasse Ottesen.

Graabak initially faced disqualification for not having his designated start number displayed during a jump, which resulted in his score being invalidated. The revised regulation introduces a system where athletes can use a reserve number in such cases, thereby avoiding disqualification. However, those who do so must pay a fine of 500 Swiss francs.

Graabak's proposal for the rule change came after he realized the implications of his situation and pointed out a loophole in the previous regulations. Ottesen confirmed that the suggestion was discussed and accepted, citing that it was unfair for athletes to be disqualified over a minor issue like a missing start number. Graabak received praise for his proactive approach to solving a problem rather than merely complaining about it. With this new rule, athletes will no longer be penalized harshly for losing or damaging their start numbers at critical competitions. The adjustments are seen as beneficial to the integrity of the sport, allowing athletes to participate without the fear of disqualification due to unintended mishaps.