"where they held up red cards in front of officials." Really, I thought the athletes were all on stage and just held thier cards up for an excellent photo op. The cards were not directed at the officials!.

Well if true that a subscription is definitely required that seems pretty clear. The entire issue is about the subscription vs free livestream. It also seems like the IFSC board meeting on Wednesday won't have any power to change it. So presumably it'll be more about managing the P.R.