Former national team coach Mattias Nilsson hospitalized after head-on collision

Originally published in SVT Sport on November 19, 2024

Mattias Nilsson, the former Swedish national team coach for cross-country skiing, is hospitalized with serious injuries after a head-on collision with a truck near Sala at the end of October. He is currently in a serious but stable condition, having sustained fractures in both legs.

The 40-year-old has been a coach for prominent skier Calle Halfvarsson for many years. Halfvarsson expressed his sorrow over the incident, calling it tragic, and shared that Nilsson is highly valued within the skiing community. Lars Öberg, the head of cross-country skiing, also conveyed condolences and mentioned he has been in contact with Nilsson's close family.

Nilsson had various roles in the national team from 2017 until earlier this year before leaving for a civilian career but continues to serve as a personal trainer for national team athletes, including Calle Halfvarsson.

This incident has shocked the skiing family, and many are hoping for a swift recovery for Mattias.