U.S. Olympic Team Stays at Eight on Final FIS List; Canada Gets 11

In the final FIS quota allocation for the Olympics released this afternoon, the United States held steady with eight spots for its team in Whistler in February. That’s one more than the U.S. had earlier this year, but perhaps not quite as many as the American ski community had hoped for.

Races over the weekend were the last events to count toward the quota – if results were submitted to the FIS on time.

Finland, Norway, Sweden, Russia and Italy all have been allocated the maximum 20 spots.  Additionally, Germany has 18 spots.

While these quota numbers are “final,” they can still change.  If Norway (or any other nation) does not take their full quota, those spots will be reallocated.  There is a list for re-allocation order, and the US is second in line to pick up another spot.  If 45 spots are returned to the pool, the US would end up with an additional four.

At this point it would be reasonable to assume the US will get at least one additional spot. After #2, the US is 27th, 38th and 45th on the reallocation list.

Canada ended up with 11 spots, but also has a good shot for more.  The reallocation list is 50 deep, and Canada has nine listings, including 12th, 15th and 18th.

The initial American Olympic team of eight is due to be named tomorrow. Any additional selections will be made at the end of the month.

Canada will make an announcement on the 23rd.