Kerttu Niskanen Withdraws – Coach Explains Decision: 'That's the Only Reason'

Finnish cross-country skier Kerttu Niskanen has opted to withdraw from the combined race on Sunday at the 2025 World Ski Championships in Trondheim. Instead, she will concentrate on the upcoming 10km classical race on Tuesday.

According to Finland’s women's team coach, Ville Maunuksela, the decision was made because Niskanen did not see a realistic opportunity to challenge for a win in the combined event. Although there was a hint of a medal opportunity, it would have required an outstanding performance – something not deemed within reach at the moment.

Niskanen, who previously finished fourth in the combined event at the 2022 Beijing Olympics and has had modest World Cup results in recent 10km races, believes that concentrating all her efforts on the traditional 10km race is her best path forward. The decision was not due to any health issues, as her fitness and readiness remain strong.

In the combined race, the Finnish women’s lineup features Krista Pärmäkoski, Vilma Ryytty, Jasmin Kähärä, and, replacing Niskanen, Katri Lylynperä – a skier known primarily for her sprinting prowess.

Niskanen, 36, is aiming to capture the first individual World Championship medal of her career in Trondheim, having already earned two relay bronzes and medaled at the Peking Olympic Games with a silver in the 10km classical and a bronze in the 30km free technique. Despite being raised as a contender in the combined event, her recent World Cup performances have not placed her among the top favorites.

Social media reports confirmed that Niskanen has already arrived in Norway for the championships, signaling the start of a busy competition schedule that also includes Tuesday’s 10km race, Wednesday’s sprint, and Thursday’s relay events.