Bandy is an Olympic recognized sport. FIB is doing a hard work with a clear goal to be a participating Olympic Winter sport. There are quite many recognized sports in the waiting line with the same ambition as FIB. Bandy is the second biggest winter sport in the world, counted in number of athletes. That is a strong argument in the continued process. Only ice hockey has more athletes.
As recognized olympic sport, FIB is always invited to attend the Olympic Games. This year the FIB President, Henrik Nilsson, was invited to Milan and Cortina.
Henrik Nilsson
-The Winter Games has been a truly outstanding event, marked by exceptional sporting achievements. In this context, I would also like to pay tribute to the 18,000 volunteers for their tremendous efforts in making the Olympic Games possible. Throughout the event, they have consistently been friendly, professional and welcoming, says Henrik Nilsson.
Did you see any conditions that could be interesting to bring into the FIB olympic work?
-I am particularly impressed by the way the organizers have addressed the implementation of indoor ice sports. In addition to the newly built Milano Santa Giulia Ice Hockey Arena, two other venues were utilized: one for figure skating and speed skating, and another for ice hockey; Milano Rho Ice Hockey Arena 2.
In what way do you think that kind of development can be an advantage for the international bandy possibilities?
–These arenas were established within exhibition halls, using portable grandstands and temporary ice installations. This clearly demonstrates that, with today’s technology, there is no longer a necessity to construct new dedicated bandy arenas to host bandy competitions. Such events can instead be successfully staged in existing facilities, supported by portable stands and temporary ice rinks, says Henrik and continues…Â
-With this image, we can imagine what a
n Olympic bandy final might look like. Hopefully in the foreseeable future. We will take these experiences into account in our discussions with the IOC and local Olympic committees regarding future events.
But coming home from the Olympic Games, Henrik Nilssons enthusiasm is focused on other upcoming international events:
– FIB is now fully focused on the Youth World Championships and the Group B World Championships in bandy, both of which will be held in Uppsala, Sweden, in March!
Note: The World Championship Men and Women Group B will be held 17-21 March. The Youth World Championships Women 17, Men 17 and Men 19 is played 26-29 March!