Igor Medved, the head coach of Finland's ski jumping team, has been dismissed from the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics following violations of conduct rules stemming from an alcohol-related incident. The Finnish Olympic Committee announced the decision, stating that Medved's actions were inconsistent with the expectations set for team behavior and highlighted the seriousness with which they take rule violations. Medved's removal will undoubtedly impact the ski jumping team's preparation and performance during the competition, as they will now have to adapt without his guidance.

In the wake of his dismissal, Janne Hanninen, the head of the Finnish ski jumping team, confirmed that Medved had traveled home immediately, indicating the swift response from the organization's officials. Medved acknowledged his mistake and expressed remorse, publicly apologizing to the Finnish athletes, the team, and their supporters. This incident raises questions about the management of conduct among athletes and coaching staff at high-stakes events like the Olympics, where maintaining a focused and disciplined environment is crucial for success.

Moreover, this situation reflects broader discussions around the role of personal conduct in professional sports, especially concerning issues of alcohol use. As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, ensuring that all team members, including coaches, adhere to stringent conduct policies will be essential for Finland's reputation and competitiveness on the world stage.