Your number 1 Nordic skiing podcast is back ! This time we delve into the controversy surrounding the participation of Russian athletes in international competitions amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Mika shares the backlash received from both Russian and Western journalists, highlighting the polarized views on their stance. We had the honor to invite Skicross world champion and Olympic medalist Alex Fiva, he is also athlete representative at the FIS Council. He provides insights into the decision-making process regarding the inclusion of Russian athletes. Alex explains the structure and voting procedures of the FIS Council, emphasizing the challenges of maintaining neutrality in politically charged discussions. The conversation touches on the broader implications of sports and politics, the role of athlete representatives, and the importance of focusing on the sport itself. The episode concludes with a call for peace and the hope for a return to normalcy in the sporting world.