After Ski Jumping Scare - FIS Takes Action After "Life-Threatening" Incident

After the shocking incident during the ski jumping qualifiers in Lillehammer, where Norwegian jumper Kristoffer Eriksen Sundal was unexpectedly bumped by a moveable start barrier, the International Ski Federation (FIS) has announced new safety measures. Sundal was preparing on the take-off ramp when the barrier, which was not secured properly, pushed him into the launch area. Fortunately, he managed to land safely, but he expressed frustration over the lack of control during the moment, stating, 'It could have gone terribly wrong.'

In response, Borek Sedlak, the FIS's deputy race director, confirmed new protocols for ensuring that all ski jumps and surrounding obstacles are secure before a jump. Sedlak noted, 'I couldn't see the banner was still moving since it was stuck before. It's impossible for me to notice such things from 100 meters away. Unfortunately, incidents like this can happen when we use this technology.' Sedlak mentioned he would prefer manual control of the barriers to avoid such dangerous interruptions in the future. This incident, while alarming, was viewed as a wake-up call for safety improvements in the sport.