Sebastian Coe's proposal to add cross-country running and cyclocross to the Winter Olympics by 2030 has faced opposition from winter sports federations. The World Athletics president suggested the events could be held on the same course in the French Alps, but critics argue that the lack of snow and ice undermines the winter Games' identity.
Coe, who sits on the IOC's Olympic programme working group, believes the new IOC president Kirsty Coventry is open to change. He also floated the idea of moving indoor sports like judo to the winter Games, stating: 'There's no reason why not.' However, winter sports bodies have expressed concerns about diluting the event's core focus.
The debate comes as part of the IOC's 'fit for the future' reforms. Coe remains optimistic, citing Africa's lack of representation in winter sports. 'Cross-country would give Africa a proper presence,' he said, while acknowledging that charter changes would be needed to allow non-snow events.
