Darja Virolainen got a chance in the Finnish national team, and plans to use it as well.
Born in Russia and lived in Finland until 2016 Darja Virolainen has spoken clean Russian of MatchTV in the interview.
The 34-year-old biathlon skier recently received the right to represent Finland on the national team from the international biathlon association Ibu.
An Estonian has had Finnish citizenship since 2021. He previously appeared in Russian colors in international arenas.
The Estonian is accused of being a traitor in Russia. However, he doesn’t see it the same way.
– I have not sacrificed my thoughts for something like this. The fact that I’m being called a traitor… I don’t feel that way. I have lived in Finland for a long time, and during that time also competed as a Russian.
– My children go to school and preschool in Finland. I wish people would be understanding. I now have a new opportunity to show my nails in international arenas. I want to use it. Why wouldn’t I?
Biathlon does not want to separate itself from the country of its birth.
– My parents and all my relatives live in Russia. The children go there with their grandparents. We keep in close contact. I am definitely going to visit Russia, Virolainen says.
Darja Virolainen at the World Cup race 2017. PDO