Iivo Niskanen Unable to Compete in World Championships – Aino-Kaisa Saarinen's Direct Words on the Finnish Star's Weakness

Iivo Niskanen, one of Finland's top cross-country skiers, will not participate in the World Championships in Trondheim due to illness. After struggling with flu symptoms following the Falun World Cup, it was clear he would not be able to race. Niskanen was expected to be a strong competitor, with significant potential in the classic 10 km event.

Aino-Kaisa Saarinen, a recognized figure in Finnish skiing, expressed her view on the matter, emphasizing the impact of Niskanen's absence. She acknowledged that without his participation, Finnish teams would be at a disadvantage, especially for relay events. "Niskanen could have been a crucial point in our team efforts," Saarinen noted.

The Finnish head coach, Teemu Pasanen, stated that Niskanen had tried to prepare for the competition but ultimately his health did not allow him to compete. "Sickness at an inopportune time is unfortunate, and it hampers the athlete's training and performance path. Ivo's health comes first," Pasanen said.

Niskanen himself shared on social media, expressing disappointment about his condition and the missed opportunity to compete at such a high level. He revealed that he had hoped to participate but felt it was ultimately unrealistic given his current state.

This situation opens the door for Norway's star Johannes Høsflot Klæbo, who remains a favorite for multiple medals in the championship events. Klæbo has shown excellent form in the previous races, making him a strong contender for gold.

The news of Niskanen's illness has been a significant topic of discussion within Finnish sports, showcasing the unpredictability of athletic performance and the personal challenges athletes often face.