Ski mountaineering added to 2030 Winter Olympics program

LAUSANNE, June 25 (Xinhua) -- Ski mountaineering was officially added to the sports program for the 2030 French Alps Winter Olympics after receiving approval from the 146th Session of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Thursday.

The decision followed a recommendation from the IOC Executive Board based on a proposal submitted by the French Alps 2030 Organizing Committee and reviewed by the IOC Olympic Program Working Group.

Working Group chair Karl Stoss said the sport complements the identity of the Alpine host region while broadening the appeal and diversity of the Olympic program.

Ski mountaineering made its Olympic debut at the Milan-Cortina Winter Games earlier this year. Stoss said the competition attracted strong spectator interest and proved its sporting value, helping pave the way for its inclusion at the 2030 Games.

According to the IOC, participation in the sport has grown significantly since it was provisionally added to the Olympic program in 2021. The number of participating National Olympic Committees has increased by more than 45 percent, while the number of registered athletes has more than doubled.

French Alps 2030 Organizing Committee President Edgar Grospiron described ski mountaineering as a sport with deep roots in Alpine culture, making it a natural fit for the Games.

The proposed Olympic program includes five medal events: men's and women's individual races, along with men's, women's and mixed relay sprint events. A total athlete quota of 72 has been proposed.

The IOC Executive Board is expected to finalize the disciplines, events and athlete quotas for the 2030 Winter Games in the coming weeks. Enditem