Olympic disqualification: Duo ejected over banned ‘forever chemical’

South Korean cross-country skiers Han Dasom and Lee Eui-jin have been disqualified from the women’s classic sprint after their skis tested positive for the prohibited substance fluorinated wax.

The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) confirmed the ruling on Tuesday, immediately removing the pair from the qualification round.

Officials discovered traces of the substance, commonly known as fluor, on the athletes’ equipment following routine inspections.

Neither competitor was considered a serious medal contender for the event, sitting 157th and 158th in the World Cup standings respectively.

Health and environmental risks

The controversy centers on a performance-enhancing product officially banned by the governing body in 2023.

Originally adopted from sailing in the late 1980s to improve glide, the wax was outlawed due to its detrimental impact on both the environment and human health.

The FIS highlights that the substance does not biodegrade, earning it the scientific moniker of a "forever chemical."

Significant health risks are also posed to the ski technicians who apply the treatment using hot irons, often in inadequately ventilated spaces.

Testing is conducted in designated areas near the finish line to ensure compliance with the regulations that came into full effect for the 2023-24 season.

The Korea Ski Association has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the breach.

Team GB suffer medal heartbreak

Away from the equipment controversy, Team GB are still searching for their first podium finish of the Games.

Bruce Mouat and Jen Dodds were defeated by hosts Italy in the mixed curling bronze medal match on Tuesday afternoon.

It marks the third time the British squad has finished fourth at these Winter Olympics.

Kirsty Muir and Mia Brookes also narrowly missed out on medals earlier in the week, increasing pressure on the team to meet UK Sport’s target of four to eight medals.