Ski Jumping Scandal Rocks Norway: Top Athletes Suspended for Equipment Manipulation

Norwegian ski jumpers Marius Lindvik and Johann Andre Forfang, along with officials, have been suspended as part of a probe into equipment manipulation during the World Ski Championships. FIS aims to eradicate manipulation, seizing jumpsuits for further inspection.

The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) has provisionally suspended Norwegian ski jumpers Marius Lindvik and Johann Andre Forfang, along with three team officials. This decision comes amid allegations of equipment manipulation at the World Ski Championships held in Trondheim, Norway.

Lindvik, who initially secured second place, and Forfang, who finished fourth, were both disqualified after an inspection of their equipment. The Federation's Secretary General, Michel Vion, asserted the organization's commitment to ensuring sportsmanship and fairness, stating, "The only thing that matters to FIS is to leave this process 100% convinced that the sport is free from any form of manipulation."

The ongoing investigation prompted FIS to confiscate all jumpsuits used by the Norwegian team for a thorough re-inspection. The Norwegian Ski Federation has also taken internal actions, suspending two staff members, including head coach Magnus Brevik, after admitting to manipulating the jumpsuits for competitive advantage.

(With inputs from agencies.)