KNSB Suspends Measure to Ban Foreign Skaters After 2026 Olympic Games in Milan
Jun 26, 2023 at 4:06 PMUpdate: 23 minutes ago
The Dutch skating association, KNSB, has decided to postpone the ban on foreign skaters until after the 2026 Olympic Games in Milan. This decision comes after facing harsh criticism from commercial teams.
The measure was initially introduced by Technical Director Remy de Wit in April, with the intention of giving Dutch talents an advantage over their foreign competitors. As part of the measure, foreign skaters were also prohibited from using the top sports hours in Thialf, which are financed by the sports umbrella organization NOC*NSF.
However, various commercial teams strongly criticized the KNSB’s plans, arguing that the presence of foreign athletes actually improves the Dutch talents within the team. Team IKO, in particular, was heavily impacted by the decision, as it included Belgian Olympic champion Bart Swings and Belgian short trackers Stijn and Hanne Desmet, who trained with the Dutch selection.
Following consultations with the teams, the skating association has decided to suspend the measure. Remy de Wit emphasized that the decision was not made hastily and was driven by concern for Dutch talent.
In a positive turn of events, the postponement of the ban is good news for Team Albert Heijn-Zaanlander. The team recently signed American skating sensation Jordan Stolz until the Olympic Games in Milan. Stolz, who became world champion in the 500, 1,000, and 1,500 meters in March, was initially planning to continue training in the United States. However, with the suspension of the ban, there are no longer any obstacles for Stolz to practice in Thialf.
Despite the postponement, Remy de Wit’s position remains unchanged. He stated, “However, if we don’t perform as expected of us at the Olympic Games, after all the resources and money we put into it from the union, we have a problem with each other. I try to prevent that with these kinds of measures.”
The KNSB’s decision to suspend the ban on foreign skaters has sparked discussions within the skating community. While some support the measure as a means to prioritize Dutch talent, others argue that the presence of foreign athletes can contribute to the overall improvement of the sport in the Netherlands. As the debate continues, all eyes will be on the upcoming 2026 Olympic Games in Milan to see how the Dutch skaters perform against their international competitors.
What were the concerns and protests raised by commercial teams regarding the banning of foreign skaters in the sport of skating?
H sparked concerns and protests from commercial teams who rely on foreign skaters to remain competitive.
However, the KNSB has now decided to suspend this measure until after the 2026 Olympic Games in Milan. This decision was made due to the significant backlash and pressure from commercial teams, who argue that banning foreign skaters would harm the overall competitiveness and diversity of the sport.
The KNSB’s initial intention behind the measure was to prioritize Dutch talents and provide them with a competitive advantage. However, critics argue that this would limit opportunities for foreign skaters and potentially hinder the growth of the sport.
The KNSB’s decision to suspend the ban is seen as a compromise, allowing foreign skaters to continue participating in Dutch competitions and training in top facilities like Thialf. It also ensures that the Netherlands remains an attractive destination for international skaters, thus maintaining the overall competitiveness of the sport.
While some supporters of the ban argue that it would create a fairer playing field for Dutch skaters, the KNSB acknowledges the importance of international talent in enriching the sport and believes that a balanced approach is necessary.
The KNSB’s decision to postpone the ban until after the 2026 Olympic Games in Milan provides a temporary solution that appeases both Dutch skaters and commercial teams. It allows for further discussions and evaluations of the impact of such a ban before making any permanent decisions.
The KNSB remains committed to supporting and developing Dutch talents while recognizing the importance of a diverse and competitive skating environment. By deferring the ban, the association aims to find a balance that benefits all stakeholders in the sport.
This decision by the KNSB to postpone the ban on foreign skaters until after the 2026 Olympic Games in Milan has received mixed reactions. While some appreciate the extension providing international talent with an opportunity to showcase their skills, others argue that it may hinder the development of local skaters. Ultimately, striking the right balance between nurturing domestic talent and embracing global diversity will be crucial for long-term success in the sport.