The recent Olympic qualifying event in Val di Fiemme showcased a disappointing scene as only 36 athletes participated in the men's combined event, a stark contrast to earlier competitions that featured more than 50 athletes, including many from Finland. This decline raises alarms about the sport's health and appeal, particularly given the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) worrying stance on the combined event's relevance. The poor turnout has not only affected the men's competition but also underscores the IOC's troubling decision to exclude women from the combined event entirely in the upcoming Milan-Cortina Olympics.

The prospects for the combined event appear increasingly dire, with discussions about its future at the Olympic level becoming urgent. Having been a part of the Olympic program since the 1924 Chamonix games, the combined event is now facing scrutiny as the IOC expresses concerns about maintaining competitive standards and viewer interest. This tension has intensified as the omission of women from the event could lead to its disappearance from future competitions altogether, particularly as a decision on its status is expected by June.

While Finland has produced stars in the combined discipline, such as Samppa Lajunen and Hannu Manninen, the current generation of athletes is struggling to attract attention and funding. Without significant changes and a reinvigoration of the sport, including the inclusion of women, the combined event risks being relegated to the sidelines of Olympic history, further diminishing its legacy and placement in future Games, including those in France in 2030.