FIS Confident in Inclusion of Women in Olympic Program

Winter Games 2030: FIS is Confident About the Inclusion of Women in the Olympic Program

Background

The International Ski Federation (FIS) is confident that female Nordic combined athletes will be included in the Olympic program for the 2030 Winter Games. This assurance was expressed by FIS Race Director Lasse Ottesen during the Nordic World Championships in Trondheim. He stated, "I am extremely positive and very sure that the IOC will make the only right decision and include women—not only for 2030 but also beyond."

Current situation

As of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Nordic combined remains the only sport without female participation. The IOC has justified this lack of inclusion by citing that too few nations would be competitive for medals. However, Ottesen noted significant growth in participation numbers among women in recent years, which he hopes will sway the IOC's decision.

Future of Women in Nordic Combined

The IOC will announce in late 2025 whether Nordic combined will remain a part of the Olympic program. There is also a possibility that men could be cut from the competition as well. Sandra Spitz, FIS's Sports and Event Director, stressed the importance of maintaining the sport's deep tradition, established since its Olympic debut in 1924, emphasizing that removing it would mark a significant loss.

Enhancements in the Sport

To increase appeal, the FIS has been working on new formats for competitions, including the introduction of a sprint event in the upcoming World Cup season. The calendar for women’s competitions in 2025/26 is also set to be aligned with that of men’s competitions, with women set to participate in the prestigious Lahti Ski Games in Finland. Many female athletes have voiced their concerns about their sport’s future, linking their prospects to Olympic recognition, which they see as essential to their careers.

Source: sid