Natalia Terentyeva granted neutral athlete status by FIS

Olympic cross-country skier Natalia Terentyeva (formerly Nepryaeva) has been granted neutral athlete status by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS). This decision allows the 31-year-old Russian athlete to compete in the upcoming World Cup season starting in Ruka.

Terentyeva, a 2022 Olympic gold medalist in the relay and former overall World Cup winner, is returning to competition following maternity leave. Her eligibility is subject to meeting specific requirements, including anti-doping compliance and obtaining necessary visas for host countries.

The FIS has recently modified the criteria for neutral status, including changes to how military affiliations are assessed. There are currently over 180 athletes on the neutral status list, which includes several Russian and Belarusian competitors.