Iivo Niskanen Is Not Even Considering Retirement and Already Talks About an Incredible Medal Streak – One Wish for This Season

Muonio

Iivo Niskanen, starting his competition season at the Olostunturi races in Muonio on Saturday, completed an intense free technique workout on the mountain's five-kilometer track on Thursday. The lactate levels from his fingertip blood sample were so moderate that head coach Teemu Pasasta was visibly pleased.

Iivo Niskanen focused on a vigorous training session on the five-kilometer trail, preparing with his support team two weeks before the World Cup begins in Kuusamo.

During the power training, Niskanen and his support staff, including Niko Nättinen handling over a hundred pairs of skis, sought to solve a puzzle regarding a rare DNF (did not finish) marking that appeared in his records during a 20-kilometer mass start in Falun last March.

Rare DNF

The DNF was particularly unusual for Niskanen, who tested ski pairs in an effort to confirm whether the issue was indeed with the equipment, as speculated during that race. He remarked that they attempted to cross-check with other pairs. Although they confirmed the pair in question did not perform well, the exact reason remained uncertain.

Niskanen had kept a low profile since the start of his injury recovery last season but was still very much involved with his training. In September, he welcomed another child into his family, contributing to his busy schedule alongside their home building project.

Focus on Health

Niskanen mentioned his ultimate wish this season is to compete healthily again after a tough period filled with injuries, including a significant back muscle strain from competitions last spring and a subsequent high fever that sidelined him for weeks. He stated it has been frustrating not to have a consistent performance due to factors beyond his control.

On the horizon, he aims for a remarkable five-gold medal streak at the Olympics, indicating a long-term commitment to his career up until at least the next Winter Olympics in 2030.