In a recent skiing event at the Olympics, the International Ski Federation (FIS) faced backlash after allowing Norway to use a wax applicator for ski maintenance without informing other teams. This decision astonished competitors, particularly the Finnish team, who felt slighted by the lack of communication regarding the rules governing such equipment. Michal Lamplot, the competition director for FIS, struggled to provide a clear answer for the oversight, stating that they had permitted Norway's use of the applicator but failed to update the associated regulations for the ongoing season.

Lamplot's remarks revealed a concerning gap in the governance of competitive skiing, as athletes were left confused about the guidelines that were ostensibly meant to be uniformly enforced. He acknowledged that while Norway's request to use the wax applicator was granted, the FIS failed to communicate this decision universally to other teams. The officials cited the need to avoid changing regulations mid-season, which heightened tensions among rival teams who felt the rules were not applied equally.

In addition to Norway's situation, the issue of the USA's ski waxing solvent also became a topic of contention, showcasing the complexities surrounding gear regulations in high-stakes competitions. This incident has prompted discussions about the transparency and effectiveness of the oversight body in ensuring fair play, and it may indicate the necessity for a more stringent review of equipment policies to prevent similar controversies in future events.