FIS MEDIA INFO: FIS statement concerning accident in Grindelwald (SUI)

Oberhofen, 25.04.2012//--Six weeks have now passed since the fatal accident that claimed the life of Nik Zoricic at the World Cup ski cross competition in Grindelwald that has deeply touched the ski community. The thoughts and sympathies of the FIS family are with his family and friends during these difficult times.

Following numerous media enquires as a result of the press conference called by Timothy Danson, legal counsel to the parents of Nik Zoricic, we would like to provide an update on the activities that have been undertaken, as well as those planned.

An official investigation into the accident in Grindelwald is being undertaken by the Swiss police and state authorities. In view of the upcoming FIS Committee Meetings and Congress at the end of May, we approached the authorities to ask about the timeline for determining the outcome of the investigation and were advised that the preliminary timeline will be assessed at the end of May or beginning of June.

It is the goal of FIS to try to prevent similar accidents occurring in the future and considerable work is being undertaken through the Injury Surveillance System. At the Technical Committee meetings in Korea, the ski cross advisory group with alpine skiing specialists and snowboard cross experts will be reviewing the rules, specifications and processes as part of their post-season evaluation. Additionally, in view of the evolution of ski cross especially with its inclusion on the programme of the Olympic Winter Games, the Council has planned to address appointing a specialist sub-committee.

To emphasise the importance of athlete safety and oversee the various different activities that have been going on and continue to develop in respect of all FIS disciplines, it is foreseen that a member of the FIS Council will be appointed to oversee this area of activity.

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About FIS
FIS is the governing body for international skiing and snowboarding, founded in 1924 during the first Olympic Games in Chamonix, France. Recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), FIS manages the Olympic disciplines of Alpine Skiing, Cross-Country Skiing, Ski Jumping, Nordic Combined, Freestyle Skiing and Snowboarding, including setting the international competition rules. Through its 114 member nations, more than 6'000 FIS ski and snowboard competitions are staged annually. Specific initiatives are undertaken by FIS to promote snow activities as a healthy leisure recreation, notably for the young.

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