This year's Winter Olympics is notable for being the first event where fluorinated ski waxes are banned, a change aimed at reducing environmental pollution and health risks associated with fluorinated compounds. The ban has created opportunities for new players in the ski waxing industry, leading to innovations that could enhance athlete performance without the use of harmful substances.

Among the new developers is Liug SportTech, a spinoff from the University of Tartu, which is testing its new ski waxes at the Olympics. Their research focuses on developing alternatives that provide optimal performance under the new regulations. The involvement of academic institutions in sports technology highlights the growing intersection between science and athletics, particularly in pursuit of cleaner and safer sports practices.

The implications of this ban extend beyond just the Olympics, as it could set a precedent for future competitions and industries. If successful, innovations from companies like Liug SportTech could lead to a wider shift in the market for ski products, influencing not only competitive sports but also recreational skiing. Athletes and sponsors are likely to watch closely as the performance of these new waxes is tested at the Games, underscoring the significant impact of environmental regulations on sports innovation.