President relieved that top skier remains Slovak

President Andrej Kiska "received with joy" the news that talented alpine skier Adam Žampa and his brother Andreas will continue competing for Slovakia. This was in response to last week's announcement that the 24 year old Žampa was seriously considering representing Russia due to reported broken promises regarding funding by the Slovak Skiing Association and infighting within its top ranks. "I've known the Žampas since they were little boys. Adam used to be in one skiing unit with my children", said Kiska, a native of Poprad (Prešov region), directly beneath the High Tatra Mountains. "I know that they've always been proud Slovaks, and so I'm glad that it remains so and that they'll continue to compete for Slovakia. I also appreciate the approach of Prime Minister [Robert Fico] and Education [Science, Research and Sport] Minister [Juraj Draxler] in tackling the issue. It's necessary to get our funding of sports in gear quickly", said Kiska, adding that it must be clear and transparent. "I don't have powers to propose a budget and meddle in funding of sports, but at the nearest meeting with the education minister I'll also enquire about these issues. Skiing is a very costly sport, so I welcome cooperation with foreign federations. If they create beneficial conditions for our athletes and [Žampas] continue to represent Slovakia, then it's a good model", said Kiska. Adam Žampa made a splash at last year's Winter Olympics in Sochi by finishing fifth in the super combined race and sixth in the slalom race.