IBU implements Fluor ban related EU regulations

The IBU has implemented the EU Regulations ((EC) No. 1907/2006 ("REACH") and (EU) 2019/1021 ("POP regulation")), which state that it is forbidden to produce, sell and use products that contain forbidden C8 Fluor over the allowed threshold, in the Event and Competition Rules to define permissible ski preparation products. NFs agreed to allow an IBU Testing Team to collect samples as spot-checks. 

IBU adopted the EU Regulations regulations in the Event and Competition Rules to define permissible ski preparation products at all IBU Events (incl. OWG and YJWCH). Products that contain Fluorocarbons and are composed of C6 Fluor and do not contain forbidden C8 Fluor over the allowed threshold are allowed for use.

All official IBU Supplying Partners have signed a declaration stating that all the products they sell or bring to IBU events comply fully with the EU regulations. All NFs participating in IBU events have also signed a declaration stating that they will only use ski preparation products that comply with EU regulations. They also agreed to allow an IBU Testing Team to collect samples as spot-checks from their wax cabins in the presence of the NF staff. Samples will be sent to laboratories for a check if they comply with EU regulations. IBU has shared the method and recommended laboratories in case NFs desire to conduct tests on their own.

Violations of the IBU Event and Competition Rules / EU regulations are subject to disciplinary procedures as defined in the IBU rules, which include but are not limited to fines. Single athletes will not be sanctioned, and therefore also no disqualifications will apply.

The work on on-site Fluor detection methods continues, and further updates on this subject will follow periodically throughout the season. Parallel testing, including the NFs, is ongoing during the winter.