Confirmed: Petter Northug Skips Season Opener

Confirmed: Petter Northug Skips Season Opener

Petter Northug will not take part in the opening of the cross-country skiing season at Beitostølen due to a back injury.

Northug stated, "The chiropractor told me that I would be an idiot to compete, so I choose to listen to that and skip the races this weekend," he told TV 2.

He experienced back troubles during a training session on Sunday, and when NTB met him the following day, he was clearly in pain and uncertain if his comeback at Beitostølen would happen. He has not competed there since 2018.

The opening weekend also features competitions in 10 kilometers classic and 10 kilometers freestyle. Northug's plan for the season is to combine all-round races and long-distance events. Despite the setback, the dream of participating in the World Championship at home in Granåsen is still not completely off for the 38-year-old, and races at Beitostølen would have given him a good chance to showcase his abilities.

(©NTB/Eurosport)