Updated in January 2026. Photo and text: Birken

Participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in Birken 2026

Based on FIS's recent decisions December 2025 and current guidelines for participation by Russian and Belarusian citizens, Birken has established the following practice for the events in 2026:

Elite athletes with Russian or Belarusian citizenship must apply for approval through FIS, in line with FIS's current guidelines and approval schemes. Elite athletes with Russian or Belarusian citizenship who wish to participate in competitions that are part of FIS must apply for and be granted the status of “Individual Neutral Athlete” (AIN) with FIS before they can compete in the elite classes in Birken.

For all classes other than Elite, athletes who have legal entry to Norway, or who are resident in Norway, can register for and participate in Birken on ordinary terms.

Birken complies with current international and national regulations and will continuously assess practice if the framework conditions change.