U23 world champion Mathias Holbæk fined for unusual celebration
21-year-old Mathias Holbæk, who recently won the U23 mass start world championship in cross-country skiing, has been fined for his victory celebration, Bild reports. The International Ski Federation (FIS) deemed his gesture inappropriate.
What exactly happened?
As Holbæk approached the finish line, he made an unusual gesture—placing his ski pole near his groin and raising it upwards. It appeared to be his way of celebrating his race win and world champion title.
However, FIS did not appreciate the gesture and fined Holbæk 250 Swiss francs for unsportsmanlike conduct.
The Norwegian skier was displeased with the federation’s decision, insisting that he was simply celebrating his finish and nothing more. He explained that after the race, FIS representatives approached him and his coach, asking them to come with them. They then informed Holbæk that his celebration was considered inappropriate and unsporting due to its perceived sexualized nature.
“I find it a bit strange. Of course, I have to respect it, but I still think it’s odd that I’m being fined for this,” he told Norwegian broadcaster NRK.
FIS has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
Yasmine Green
Dailysports's expert
Translated by the editors
