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Nordic Combined Athletes Protest Olympic Exclusion in Austria

1/28/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Female Nordic combined athletes plan to protest their exclusion from the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics during their final Seefeld, Austria, competition.
Annika Malacinski, a Nordic combined competitor, says IOC requirements are met but exclusion persists.
The athletes will form an X with ski poles to symbolize no exception.
The IOC acknowledged challenges and pledged to support development, with an evaluation after the 2026 Games and a 2030 inclusion goal.

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Story summary

Female Nordic combined athletes plan to protest their exclusion from the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics during their final Seefeld, Austria, competition.
Annika Malacinski, a Nordic combined competitor, says IOC requirements are met but exclusion persists.
The athletes will form an X with ski poles to symbolize no exception.
The IOC acknowledged challenges and pledged to support development, with an evaluation after the 2026 Games and a 2030 inclusion goal.