Keeping It Fair: FIS Cracks Down on Ski Jumping Equipment Manipulation
Ski Jumping Now Facing Disciplinary Actions Following Scandal Involving Lawsuit
Gear up for some changes in the world of ski jumping! The International Ski Federation (FIS) is tightening the rules following a scandal involving manipulated ski suits at the World Championships last winter. Let's delve into the exciting new measures the FIS is introducing for the 2025/26 season, starting with the Grand Prix for Ski Jumping and Nordic Combined.
A New Card System
Whether you've been playing football or just watching from the sidelines, the yellow and red card system is nothing new. But, it's making its way onto the ski jumping scene! An athlete will now receive a yellow card for an initial equipment violation. If a skier violates the rules a second time, out comes the red card, and that jumper will be suspended from the next event. To make matters more impactful, the jumper's nation will also lose a quota spot in the affected World Cup competition.
Previously, disqualifications, such as overly large suits, didn't have any bearing on subsequent events. But, with these new rules, athletes will think twice before breaking the rules.
Modern Measurements and High-Tech Suits
To complement the new card system, FIS is introducing 3D measurements and RFID suits to enhance monitoring and ensure compliance with the regulations. These technological advancements aim to prevent unauthorized modifications to suits and provide more accurate measurement control.
A Team of Experts
The changes will be overseen by the Coordinator of Ski Jumping equipment controller Jürgen Winkler and FIS Equipment Specialist Mathias Hafele. Both individuals bring extensive expertise in Ski Jumping and Nordic Combined, ensuring a high level of oversight and enforcement.
Addressing Equipment Manipulation Scandals
These measures come in response to recent scandals, like the Norwegian team's equipment manipulation at the World Championships, which led to increased scrutiny and calls for stricter regulations. By implementing these changes, FIS aims to maintain a level playing field for all athletes and promote the integrity of the sport.
[1] FIS – Fédération Internationale de Ski[2] The Local – Norway's Manipulated Ski Suits Scandal: The Details[3] DPA – Oberhofen - Neue Regeln für Skispringen angesichts Skandal um Schwindelanzüge[4] The Guardian – Norway ski jumping scandal: what are the latest developments?
The new card system, encompassing yellow and red cards, is being integrated into the ski jumping world, penalizing equipment violations with suspensions and quota spot losses for offending nations. Additionally, FIS is introducing high-tech RFID suits and 3D measurements to monitor and regulate skiing equipment, addressing past scandals such as the Norwegian team's manipulated suits at the World Championships.
