As the Milan-Cortina 2026 Olympics kicked off, skiers and snowboarders were faced with a new challenge – a ban on fluorinated waxes that have long been used to enhance the speed of their equipment. This ban, aimed at protecting public health and the environment, was enforced for the first time during the Winter Games, leading to the disqualification of several athletes.
South Korean cross-country skiers Han Dasom and Lee Eui-jin, as well as Japanese snowboarder Shiba Masaki, were all disqualified from their respective events after routine testing revealed the presence of banned compounds on their equipment. These compounds, found in fluorocarbon waxes, are known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and are considered “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment.
Elite snow sports athletes have long relied on fluorocarbon waxes for their exceptional water-repellent properties, providing a significant speed advantage, especially in warmer conditions. However, studies have linked exposure to PFAS to various health issues, prompting the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) to impose a ban in 2019. The ban took effect in 2023 and applies to all FIS-governed events, including nordic, alpine, and freestyle skiing, ski jumping, and snowboarding.
Officials use Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy to detect fluoros on competitors’ equipment, disqualifying those with three or more red spots indicating the presence of the banned substance. In response to the disqualifications, the Korean Olympic Committee protested, stating that fluoride was detected in what they believed to be fluoride-free waxes. The team replaced the wax and checked the skis again to prevent recurrence.
While the exact outcome of the protest remains unclear, the Korean athletes were allowed to compete in subsequent events. Unlike infractions related to doping, discipline for unintentional fluoro use typically applies only to the event in question. The Korean team competed again in the 10km freestyle event, with their results standing this time.
Overall, the enforcement of the fluorinated wax ban at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Olympics highlights the ongoing efforts to protect both athletes and the environment from the harmful effects of PFAS. As the winter sports community continues to adapt to these changes, the focus remains on ensuring fair competition while prioritizing the health and well-being of all involved.
