Ingvild Flugstad Østberg: "World Championship is not realistic"

Ingvild Flugstad Østberg told VG in an interview that she has come to an agreement with her doctor not to participate in ski races until after Christmas. She believes her dream of competing in the World Championships has faded. The 33-year-old stated, "It's not realistic for the World Championships. It's hard to say, but as long as there is a glimmer of hope, it's difficult to let go of the dream. I think in my best form, I would be one of the four who could compete for Norway and fight for a medal, but right now I am far from that."

She revealed that she is struggling with not eating enough and needs to gain weight to compete again. The decision to skip the season opener at Beitostølen and not compete before Christmas was made earlier this week.

When asked if she has received a diagnosis regarding her health condition, she mentioned discussing it with her psychiatrist but is not overly concerned about having a specific label. She acknowledged that there have been periods where she has experienced unspecified eating disorders and others where she has not. \n "This has been ongoing for many years. It's not a small issue, but like a large aircraft carrier that needs to turn around, which takes time," she said regarding her health journey.

Her current situation makes her participation in the World Championships in Trondheim appear unlikely, as she emphasized the importance of her health in making a comeback in cross-country skiing.