Johaug and Klaebo Aim for Crowning Moment at Home World Championships

Therese Johaug wants to crown her comeback with gold in the 50 km premiere, and Johannes Klaebo is determined to secure his tenth world title in his home city of Trondheim. The Nordic Ski World Championships in Trondheim are shaping up as a showcase of Norwegian prowess in cross-country skiing.

Klaebo has already clinched victory on the podium ten times this season and even won the overall Tour de Ski. While his sprinting strength remains his trademark, his performances over longer distances have also improved significantly. Notable teammates include Erik Valnes, a top sprinter, and Simen Hegstad Krüger, who leads the distance ranking and is a three-time world champion in Planica.

Outside the dominant Norwegian squad, Swedish contender Edvin Anger has made an impact by securing his first World Cup win in January and moving into second place overall behind Klaebo. Anger’s recent challenge – hinting that he hopes to unsettle his rival – adds an extra layer of excitement to the championships.

On the women's side, competition is wide open with 14 different winners from five countries so far this season. American Jessie Diggins leads the overall standings with six World Cup victories, while German athlete Victoria Carl has consistently performed well, positioning her as a serious medal contender. Additionally, Swedish sprinter Jonna Sundling has emerged as a favorite in the sprint events, and Norwegian Astrid Oeyre Slind, with four season victories, is a strong contender over longer distances.

Yet, all eyes remain on the 14-time world champion Therese Johaug. After a two-year pause following the birth of her daughter, Johaug returned with a vengeance—securing four World Cup wins and the overall Tour de Ski title. With the championships serving as a home event, Johaug has laid out her dream: to become the first world champion in the 50 km event, a crowning achievement that could perfectly cap her extraordinary career.