The earning potential of Russian skiers in the country’s own competitions is non-existent.
Among other things, Aleksandr Bolšunov is threatened with a significant financial drop. PASI LEISMA
The future of Russian top skiers looks very uncertain both competitively and financially.
If the International Skiing Federation continues to ban Russians from competing in cross-country skiing competitions held outside the country, the only alternative in practice is to compete in cross-country skiing competitions within Russia.
Russian star skiers, such as Aleksandr Bolshunov and Natalya Nepryaevacan expect quite a drop in income if they have to ski only in the competitions held in Russia.
Last season, Bolšunov won about 100,000 euros in prize money in the World Cup, and Neprjaeva about 130,000 euros. The other top skiers in Russia earned around 30,000 euros.
Chairman of the Russian Ski Federation Jelena Välben according to the country’s own ski cup, generally no prize money is paid at all, a significant reason for which is the lack of sponsors.
Similarly, in biathlon, for example, Russians receive prize money for up to 15th place in the country’s internal competitions.
Top Russian skiers will not remain in Russia completely without income, but the drop would be dramatic in any case if competition abroad is not allowed.
During the summer, Russian skiers are not allowed to participate in competitions outside the country. FIS will decide on the continuation of the competition ban in August.
Source: Sport-Express