Skier Mikayelyan: “For me, dignity and my homeland come above all else”

Armenian cross-country skier Mikayel Mikayelyan found himself in the spotlight following a stage of the prestigious Tour de Ski multi-day event held in Italy. The discussion was sparked by a fine imposed on the athlete for covering the logo of the competition’s official sponsor — Azerbaijan.

In an interview with the Armenian service of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, the 26-year-old skier explained that he received his race suit only a few hours before the competition and noticed the country’s name printed on it just before the start. According to Mikaelyan, he consciously decided not to start the race with that logo visible and covered it, despite being aware of the possible consequences.

“I covered the name and went to the start. For me, dignity and my homeland come above all else. The jury noticed it after the competition. I explained the reason, they said they understood, but according to International Federation rules all sponsors must be visible,” Mikayel Mikayelyan told.

The athlete stressed that he understands the regulations of the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS), which require all official sponsors to be visibly displayed on athletes’ equipment. After the finish, the jury recorded the violation and imposed a fine. According to Mikayelyan, the judges treated the situation with understanding but reminded him of the need to comply with the rules in the future.

Mikaelyan also noted that while sport should ideally remain outside politics, he cannot ignore his own principles or issues related to the safety and dignity of his country. He said he is not prepared to compete under such symbolism in the future either.

The Armenian Ski Federation confirmed that a repeated violation could result in a larger fine, but there is no talk of disqualification. Federation President Gagik Sargsyan stated in a video message on Facebook that the organization supports the athlete’s decision and is ready to cover the imposed fine.

It should be recalled that earlier FIS signed a five-year agreement with the State Tourism Agency of Azerbaijan, under which the country’s name is placed on the competition suits of participants in a number of international events. The incident involving Mikaelyan has once again raised the question of where the boundaries lie between sport, athletes’ personal positions, and the commercial obligations of international federations.