The 17-year-old cross-country skier’s International Ski Federation (FIS) code — which is required for athletes to compete in events run by the governing body — was changed to “not active” approximately three weeks ago. It followed a decision from the Belarus Ski Union, according to Reuters.
CNN has reached out to the Belarus Ski Union and the Belarus Cross-Country Skiing Federation for comment on Dolidovich’s case.
In a statement to CNN, the FIS said: “FIS has reached out to the Belarus Ski Association to ask the reason why the status was changed, but has not yet received an update.”
Darya confirmed that her family had relocated to Poland during a video interview with Reuters Wednesday.
“I couldn’t have imagined, even in a nightmare, that I would end up leaving my country three-four months ago. It feels like tomorrow I’ll take the plane or car back,” the teenager said.
“I had planned to finish school in Belarus, but my parents said that we were moving. I think it’s for the best for my father as well. I’m upset, of course,” she continued.
Sergei told Reuters the family had been targeted over their political views, and that his daughter’s right to compete had been taken away.
“Darya has been stripped of her right to do sports or take part in competitions. I don’t see the possibility of her continuing her career in Belarus. It all happened due to such made-up reasons. I see no chance for her to continue doing what she loves and make her dream come true,” he said.
Dolidovich is one of several Belarusian athletes who have been banned from competing or forced to flee the country in the last year, due to their criticism of sporting authorities or President Lukashenko’s regime.