In the upcoming Salpausselkä competitions scheduled for this weekend, Finland will host two Russian athletes from the cross-country skiing discipline, namely Saveli Korosteljov and Darja Neprjajeva. These two skiers have previously represented Russia at significant events such as the Tour de Ski and the Milan-Cortina Olympics, marking their continued involvement in international skiing competitions following recent controversies surrounding Russian athletes.

The return of Russian and Belarusian skiers to the World Cup circuit was confirmed last December under specific conditions that labeled them as neutral athletes. This decision came after the Court of Arbitration for Sport overturned the International Ski Federation's previous ban on these athletes, allowing them to compete again provided they met certain criteria. The inclusion of Korosteljov and Neprjajeva reflects a gradual reopening to Russian competitors in the sport, though it remains limited compared to their past participation.

Tami Kiuru, the competition director for the Salpausselkä games, emphasized that the arrangements have been made in accordance with the existing guidelines for competition organization. This indicates an effort to integrate these athletes safely into the event while navigating the complexities of international sports politics, especially considering the ongoing tensions surrounding Russian athletes following geopolitical events.