The 50-kilometer cross-country race for women in Val di Fiemme marked not only the last competition at the Winter Olympics but also the final Olympic race for Katharina Hennig Dotzler. The 29-year-old, who won a team sprint gold medal at the 2022 Games, had announced her retirement from Olympic competition four years ahead and expressed her reservations about the women's debut in this event, stating that she was against the idea of women competing in the 50-kilometer race. Hennig Dotzler emphasized that the inclusion felt like a move towards equality that overlooked biological differences between men and women, asserting that she does not feel discriminated against by this stance.

The decision to include the women's 50-kilometer race has sparked considerable debate, with many questioning whether this addition truly embodies gender equality in sports. Bundestrainer Peter Schlickenrieder also voiced his skepticism, characterizing the push for including women in long-distance events as a misguided effort. He believes that the reality of these lengthy competitions is such that the notion of gender equality, as it stands, is more of a convoluted imposition rather than a genuine representation of equal opportunity in sports.

This contentious topic reflects broader discussions in the world of athletics regarding the incorporation of women in traditionally male-dominated events. It raises significant questions around what true equality in sports should look like and underscores the complexities involved in recognizing distinctions while striving for inclusivity. The perspectives of athletes like Hennig Dotzler are vital to shaping future policies in Olympic sports, especially as gender dynamics continue to evolve.