Finland's ski jumpers will have to do without their coach. © APA/afp / ANNE-CHRISTINE POUJOULAT

Alcohol problems: Finnish coach must leave the Olympics

Finnish ski jumping coach Igor Medved has been banned from the Olympics in Italy by the Finnish National Olympic Committee because of his behavior.

February 12, 2026

From: apa

“Medved has traveled home today. It concerns alcohol problems,” said Janne Hänninen, Finnish NOC Director. “We take the rule violation very seriously and have reacted immediately.”

According to the statement, the behavior in question violates "the rules and values ​​of the Finnish team." "The matter will be discussed with Igor immediately after the Milan Olympics," explained Marleena Valtasola, CEO of the Finnish Ski Association.

Coach apologizes

The Finnish men's coach apologized immediately after his mistake. "I made a mistake. I am very sorry. I would like to apologize to the entire Finnish team, the athletes, and also the fans," Medved said in the statement.

Lasse Moilanen will accompany the men's team for the remaining individual and team competitions on the large hill, with support from women's coach Ossi-Pekka Valta and sports director Petter Kukkonen.