The international ski federation has banned drones from World Cup races after one nearly crashed into Austrian skier Marcel Hirscher as he raced down the course at a World Cup event in Italy. 

Hirscher was not injured by the drone. He said he realized something was behind him, but thought it was one of the course workers.

Officials said the organization broadcasting the event, Infront Sports & Media, had permission to use the drone, but was not supposed to let it fly directly over the racecourse.

Infront said in a statement: "We are extremely relieved that apparently no one was hurt. At the same time, this incident is being taken very seriously, and the circumstances leading to it are currently being examined. An update will be provided as soon as secured information is available."

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