Ski World Championships in Falun: Russian skiers likely to compete – organisers step up security
After the International Ski and Snowboard Federation FIS relaxed its rules, Russian athletes are expected to compete at the Nordic World Ski Championships in Falun in February 2027. The organisers have adapted their security planning – at a higher cost.
Athletes from Russia are expected to compete at the Nordic World Ski Championships in Falun, which run from 24 February to 7 March 2027. The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) has further relaxed its eligibility rules for the current season. According to the organisers in Dalarna, they have already responded – above all on security.
What FIS has decided
In early September 2026, FIS set out the conditions under which athletes from Russia and Belarus may take part in World Cups and World Championships in the 2026/27 season. They must sign a declaration of neutrality. Only individual events are permitted, national symbols such as flags, anthems or national kit are banned, and all anti-doping requirements must be met. This followed the International Olympic Committee’s decision over the summer to ease its restrictions on Russian athletes.
According to the Swedish news agency TT, FIS has so far cleared 94 Russian athletes and 56 coaches and support staff for World Cup events, including 13 cross-country skiers. Olympic champions Alexander Bolshunov and Veronika Stepanova, who have taken part in propaganda events for President Vladimir Putin, have not yet been cleared, TT reports. Other federations, such as biathlon, are still keeping their competitions closed to Russians.
How the organisers in Falun are responding
Championships CEO Kajsa Sjösvärd told TT that the participation of Russian skiers naturally affects the security work. The organisers have planned for it, she said, even though it has meant higher costs. Security is high on the agenda, and the event is much larger than the 2015 World Championships, which were also held in Falun.
There is criticism within the Swedish team: cross-country skier William Poromaa told TT that letting them in sends a signal of normalisation. In Norway, too, commentators said in September that they were surprised at how quickly FIS had reached its decision.
Why the issue matters in Sweden
Sweden has supported Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in 2022 and is now a NATO member. The question of whether Russia returns to the international stage through sport is therefore also debated politically. For Falun, the championships are at the same time a major event of importance for tourism and the region.
What this means for travellers and people in Sweden
- Allow for extra security: Anyone planning to attend the events at the Lugnet stadium should expect checks, arrive early and follow the organisers’ guidance on which items may be brought in.
- Book accommodation early: Falun is a medium-sized town. Rooms will be scarce during the championship weeks; nearby alternatives, for example in Borlänge or around Lake Siljan, are an option.
- Plan for winter driving: In late February, Dalarna is usually in deep winter. If you are travelling by car, you will need winter tyres and should allow extra time.
- Use official channels: Tickets and the programme are available via the official championships website falun2027.com. Short-notice changes, for example to access routes or security rules, will be published there and by the Dalarna region.
For more tips on travelling in your own vehicle, see our guide Driving to Sweden.