He will say what he means

Don’t want to shut up: Nils van der Poel (left) – unlike Vetle Sjåstad Christianen (right) – forced himself into a muzzle during the Olympics. Photo: Reuters and Bjorn S. Dilbeck

While Sweden’s hope to skateboarder Nils van der Poel (25) won’t come up with anything reminiscent of criticizing China during the Olympics, Vetle Sjåstad Christianen (29) has no intention of putting on a leash.

– I am an honest man who wants to say what I mean at every opportunity. Having said that, I don’t really need to distinguish myself and comment on everything possible, says Vetle Sjåstad Christiansen.

The sportsman believes that human rights and equal rights are something that Norwegians take for granted.

– Of course we advocate equal rights for all because it is normal for those of us who have grown up in a good country like Norway. The way is open to us every day and we can mean whatever we want and use our voices regardless of whether it’s the Olympics or not, says Sjåstad Christiansen.

Double Olympic gold medalist for Swedes in figure skating Nils van der Poel, He thinks it is unwise to criticize the situation in China. Therefore, he will keep his mouth shut until the tournament is over.

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– Now I think it is not particularly wise, if you want to get out of there. Nils van der Poel says: I have a basic enough understanding that what is going on is morally wrong Aftonbladet.

Chinese authorities have indicated that athletes’ statements critical of the regime may be investigated during the Olympics.

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– I don’t think it would be particularly wise for me to criticize the system I’m about to transition to, if I want to live a long and productive life, the reason why the skater is the favorite for Olympic gold in the 5000 and 10,000 metres.

This does not exactly frighten Vetle Sjåstad Christiansen.

Threats from the Chinese authorities, I don’t think many can be affected by it. In any case, I will always express what I mean and stand for, Sjåstad Christiansen tells VG.