This was part of an interview given by Russian sports minister Mikhail Degtyarev to a domestic media outlet. The main topic of discussion was whether Russian athletes will be allowed to compete at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics.
– Let us return to the 2026 Milan Olympics. It is clear that this is a difficult issue, and you are under pressure whenever you say that Russian athletes must compete there.
– Yes, it is not an easy situation.
– Do you already know how many Russian athletes might qualify for the Games?
– So far, 11 of our athletes have been cleared for qualification. Two figure skaters have already secured their spots, five speed skaters are in, and four short track skaters as well. In addition, one competitor in ski mountaineering has qualified. That makes 12 athletes in total.
– In the coming days we will know what happens with the cross-country skiers. The IOC is putting heavy pressure on the International Ski Federation to let Russians compete. They are also pushing biathlon. But the IBU are just nuts — they have taken a rigid stance and refuse to admit us in any way. With skiing there is still some hope, and of course, we are pleased with the achievements of our figure skaters.
