Two South Korean cross-country skiers were disqualified from the qualifiers of the women’s sprint classic event at the 2026 Winter Olympics after banned 'fluoro wax' was detected on their equipment.
At the 2026 Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo Winter Olympics, South Korean skiers Lee Eui-jin and Han Da-som faced disqualification after 'fluoro wax', a prohibited substance, was found on their skis during the women's sprint classic qualifiers. This detection led to the annulment of their results, which placed Lee in 70th and Han in 74th. This incident highlights the enforcement of strict regulations that have begun with this event regarding the use of such additives in skiing, commonly known as 'zombie wax' due to its environmental persistence.
Fluoro wax, categorized as a perfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS), is notorious for its resistance to environmental degradation, earning it terms like 'forever chemicals'. Although it has been utilized in winter sports since the late 1980s to enhance glide performance, growing unease about its harmful effects on health and the environment led the International Ski Federation (FIS) to enforce a ban on its usage starting in the 2023-2024 season. Inspections for fluoro wax usage were a specific focus during the Winter Olympics, indicating a broader movement towards sustainability in competitive sports.
The disqualification of Lee and Han raises questions about the consistency and accuracy of testing methods for fluoro wax, particularly since there have been critiques concerning the reliability of the detection equipment used by the FIS. Amidst claims of unintentional violations, experts emphasize the need for rigorous regulations and management of such substances, underscoring the complexity of maintaining fairness in competitive skiing while addressing environmental concerns. The case of Lee and Han demonstrates the emerging consequences athletes face as the sports world grapples with evolving norms around environmental stewardship and ethical competition practices.
