Johannes Klaebo Unbeatable at Home in the Sprint at the World Championships, Jules Chappaz Finishes Fourth

Johannes Klaebo, the Norwegian star and son of Trondheim, proved why he is a living legend in cross-country skiing by clinching his fourth consecutive world championship title in the sprint event held on home soil. Entering the competition with a record 14 consecutive sprint victories, Klaebo dominated the qualifications and methodically executed his race plan through every round.

In the semifinals, he competed against top names including 2022’s small globe winner Richard Jouve, Norwegian Evensen and Northug, Swedish skier Anger, and the double Olympic vice-champion Federico Pellegrino. Even among such formidable competitors, Klaebo maintained a commanding lead.

During the final, Klaebo took charge immediately to avoid any pitfalls, while French contenders Lucas Chanavat and Jules Chappaz advanced from an open semifinal. Although Chanavat faded mid-race, Klaebo pressed on, finishing the final descent with only Pellegrino close behind. Jules Chappaz, who had already earned a bronze at the previous championships in 2023, came agonizingly close to a medal, missing out by just two-tenths of a second behind Finland’s Lauri Vuorinen.

In the women’s sprint event, Swedish champion Jonna Sundling also shone on the world stage. Already a double world champion and the reigning Olympic champion, Sundling showcased her trademark consistency by distancing her competitors early in the race. Despite a strong challenge from local favorite Kristine Skistad, Sundling eventually broke away in the final section. With Swiss skier Nadine Faehndrich closing the gap, Sundling’s impressive effort secured her third title.

Both races underscored the high level of competition at these World Championships and highlighted memorable performances by some of the leading figures in international cross-country skiing.