Two South Korean cross-country skiers, Han Dasom and Lee Eui-jin, were disqualified from the women's classic sprint qualification round at the Winter Olympics. The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) announced the disqualification after their skis tested positive for a banned substance. This ruling impacts the athletes' participation and the overall results of the event, adding a layer of controversy to the competition.

Fluorinated ski wax, or fluor, is the substance that led to the disqualification. It has been banned by the FIS since the 2023-24 season due to its competitive advantage and environmental concerns. The wax is water-repellent, initially employed for sailboats, and later introduced to skiing. The FIS stated the Korean pair violated the rule against fluorinated wax, which can offer a competitive edge.

Han and Lee, ranked 157th and 158th in the World Cup, were not expected to win medals. The use of banned substances, however, always brings scrutiny to the sport. The disqualification underscores the FIS's commitment to fair play and adherence to regulations regarding equipment. The focus now shifts to other competitors in the race.

This incident highlights the importance of strict adherence to rules and regulations in competitive sports. The ban on fluorinated wax is in place to ensure fair competition and address environmental concerns. The situation underscores the need for thorough equipment checks and the potential consequences of rule violations, even for athletes not considered medal contenders, as the FIS looks to uphold the integrity of the games, and the health of the athletes.