It was to be expected. The numerous injuries during the last weekend of the Alpine Ski World Cup in Wengen, including those of Frenchman Alexis Pinturault (photo above) and Norwegian Alexander Aamodt Kilde, sparked controversy. The president of the Swiss Ski Federation, Urs Lehmann, attacked the international body (FIS), and its president, Johan Eliasch, blatantly criticizing them for their management of the competition calendar. “ Currently, we have to think about who makes the calendar... And this is not done according to procedures. He is a person at home in his house. And we can’t do it like that.”, suggested the Swiss. His words did not leave the FIS without reaction. The body published a press release on Tuesday January 16, where it responded to criticism from the former Swiss downhiller, Johan Eliasch's unfortunate rival for the presidency of the FIS. She recalls that “ all calendars are decided by the FIS Council. The current calendar for the 2023/24 season was unanimously approved by the FIS Council, including Urs Lehmann”. And specifies that the cancellation of numerous descents at the start of the season led the athletes and their support teams to find new dates. “ The decision to add a race in Wengen was decided in collaboration with the head coaches of the national teams”, explains the instance. In its press release, the FIS explains “ strongly condemn” the behavior of Urs Lehmann, whom she considers “ unethical ". She continues: “ A Council member has a duty to act with integrity and with the best interests of the FIS at heart.. » The rest of the season promises to be very hectic behind the scenes.
