- It gives Nils van der Poel a better chance to go all the way, absolutely, says Mattias Hadders at the Swedish Skating Association.
The International Skating Federation has been late in making the decision on how to deal with Russian and Belarusian athletes in the shadow of the war against Ukraine.
At first it was said that the Russian pilots would not come because they could not fly out of Russia when the international airspace was closed.
But several of the riders were already in Europe at the time.
The Norwegian Federation said no
As early as February 26, the Norwegian Skating Federation went out and said that it did not want Russian and Belarusian skiers to be allowed to participate in the championship.
But it took until Tuesday before the international federation finally came out with its message.
Skiers, leaders and delegates are stopped from participating.
They are stopped, among other things, with reference to "the safety of all participants", the association writes on its website.
- This is a way to mark.
Russia has started war on Ukraine.
It is good that you decide on a collective punishment, says Mattias Hadders.
Increase van der Poels chances
The decision will increase Nils van der Poel's chances.
The basic rule is that only the eight best after three distances may run the final 10,000 meter race.
The opportunity to get there is increasing.
The double Olympic gold medalist is seeded eight ahead of the championship.
But with the two Russians gone, he is moved up two steps.
And it is on van der Poel's favorite distance of 10,000 meters that he has the chance to challenge the other riders for the medals.
KLIPP: That's why Nils van der Poel gave away his Olympic gold
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Nils van der Poel gives away his gold medal.
Photo: Bildbyrån