Complete turnaround from disqualified Norwegians. Here's how they defend themselves after the jumping scandal

Disqualified Norwegian ski jumpers finally spoke out! "We apologize for not having the courage to talk to the media" — stated Marius Lindvik and Johann Andre Forfang in an evening statement. While they previously referred to their rivals' behavior as "diabolically unsportsmanlike", they now, like the head of the federation, shift the blame onto the "support staff".

After the scandal broke and a medal was stripped from Norway, they initially tried to deny it, saying they were unaware of any wrongdoing. "I need to check before I comment," Lindvik began. When a journalist pressed, stating, "They claim you manipulated your suits," Lindvik rebuffed, insisting, "No, that's not true."

The head of the Norwegian Jumping Federation, Jan-Erik Aalbu, admitted that his team had indeed cheated, but did not clarify that he was responsible for the cheating scheme himself. Instead, he used the term "support personnel" and said, "I did not know these suits were tampered with. It's shocking to me, just as it is to you."

That evening, the disqualified athletes finally released a short press communication: "We are both completely devastated. None of us would have jumped in a suit that we knew was improper. Ever. The trust in our support system was high, and they always worked hard to develop competitive equipment."

They're now demanding full transparency regarding what happened and are looking forward to speaking with FIS investigators. The last words in their statement were a direct response to the head of FIS labeling the situation a fraud and the announcement by FIS of forming an independent investigative committee. It remains unclear if the Norwegians will face further punishment.

Norwegian media also contacted coach Magnus Brevig: "I am truly sorry for what happened. I want to speak to the media, but I'll wait until tomorrow after I talk with my employer," the coach responded, announcing that he would release a statement on Monday.

Read more in Przegląd Sportowy Onet.