As recently as last Saturday, the IBU announced that Russians and Belarusians are allowed to compete, but under a neutral flag.

But since the IOC called on all sports federations to shut down the countries completely, the IBU is tightening sanctions on Russian and Belarusian activists and leaders - which are now being stopped from all international competitions.

- I think it's good.

I actually think that the IBU's first decision was good, but since then some things have happened that make me think that the more severe punishment was better, says Sebastian Samuelsson, known for being open about his criticism of the Russian team's doping history , to TT.

"Disappointed"

However, the Ukrainian, Belarusian and Russian national teams have previously announced that they will not compete in biathlon for the rest of the season.

Samuelsson had higher hopes for the Russian team.

- I was disappointed with their reaction.

They became angry that they would have to compete under a neutral flag and then they put on the sacrificial cardigan and said that the decision was illegal, says Samuelsson and continues:

- I think it is strange that you can take that attitude when you see what is happening in the world.

Regardless of what you as a Russian think about the war, you must understand that the outside world reacts.

He understands more about Ukraine ending the season.

- We are met by news that skiers we just competed against in the Olympics are out fighting for their country.

As a Swede, it is very difficult to get acquainted with.

Dmytro Pidruchny, who won World Cup gold in the hunt start in 2019, said on Saturday that he will stay at home to defend his family and his country.

On Tuesday, it also became known that a 19-year-old biathlon talent had died in battles against Russian troops.

Planning event

Samuelsson also says that there are plans for a demonstration during this weekend's World Cup competitions in Kontiolahti, Finland.

- It is difficult to do great things, but there will be some form of action.

The IBU has also opened up for discussions on whether the Russian and Belarusian national federations should be completely excluded from the federation.

- Russia is already excluded (after the doping scandals), so I do not know how much more can be done, but it is clear that it may not be easier for them to agree to this, says Sebastian Samulesson and says that it is good that the sports world marks:

- We already have financial sanctions and such, it is clear that sport must do its part by clearly marking, he says.