The international ski jumping community has been rocked by a major cheating scandal, resulting in significant sanctions for three Norwegian team officials. The FIS Ethics Committee (FEC) handed down 18-month suspensions and fines to head coach Magnus Brevik, former assistant coach Thomas Lobben, and suit technician Adrian Livelten for manipulating competition suits during the 2025 Nordic Ski World Championships in Trondheim.
The Investigation and Violations
The case centers on equipment tampering during the men's large hill event in March 2025. The controversy came to light after Olympic champions Marius Lindvik and Johann Andre Forfang, along with the coaching staff, were charged over the use of altered suits. Lindvik was stripped of his silver medal after disqualification, while Forfang, who initially placed fourth, was also disqualified following a post-race equipment inspection.
The Norwegian Ski Federation later admitted the team had manipulated the suits but asserted the ski jumpers themselves were not at fault. Organizers reported that initial checks revealed nothing, but a later inspection discovered different material had been used in the seams of the competition attire, providing an unfair aerodynamic advantage.
Sanctions and Legal Response
In its ruling on January 8, 2026, the FIS Ethics Committee imposed strict penalties. The suspensions for Brevik, Lobben, and Livelten are set for 18 months, starting from the decision date, minus the provisional suspension period they have already served since March 12, 2025. Each official was also fined 5,000 Swiss Francs (approximately $6,246.88) to contribute to the costs of the proceedings and investigation.
Legal representatives for the trio criticized the decision in a statement to Norwegian broadcaster NRK, calling it "disproportionately strict." Their lawyers argued that similar rule violations in the past had only resulted in warnings and that this case was being used to set a new, stricter precedent in international ski jumping.
Impact and Precedent
This ruling marks a significant moment for integrity in winter sports. By levying substantial bans and financial penalties, the FIS is sending a clear message against equipment tampering. The incident has tarnished Norway's reputation in a sport where it has historically excelled and raises questions about oversight and compliance at the highest levels of competition.
The sanctions will keep the key technical and coaching staff away from official events until mid-2027, potentially impacting Norway's preparations for future championships. This case will likely serve as a stark warning to all national teams about the severe consequences of violating equipment regulations.
