Russian skier **Alina Pekletsova** shared her thoughts on what level she believes she would compete at in international events if Russian athletes were fully allowed to participate.
This season, only two Russian skiers — **Saveliy Korostelyov** and **Darya Nepryaeva** — competed in the World Cup stages, having received neutral athlete status in December 2025. Previously, Pekletsova was denied neutral status herself.
**— Considering Darya [Nepryaeva], can you imagine what level you might have competed at internationally?**
— To some extent. However, Dasha’s form at the beginning of the season might not have been optimal. She looks significantly stronger now. Based on her current performances, I believe that in distance races, I could compete at a similar level as hers.
That said, I think it would still be challenging for me. Everything would be new. I’ve never been abroad, and I’m not familiar with those courses, which are more specific than those in Russia. Additionally, the emotional aspect adds to the pressure. While competing in the Russian Cup has become routine for me, everything there would be unfamiliar, and I am unsure how I would handle that. Anxiety would certainly be a factor. Nevertheless, it would be a fascinating experience, — quotes Pekletsova from “RIA Novosti Sport”.
