Northug with clear message about Johaug before comeback

Originally published in Eurosport on November 20, 2024

Petter Northug has high hopes for Therese Johaug's return to competition at Beitostølen. He expressed confidence in Johaug's performance in her first races of the season, which he believes should culminate in success at the World Championships in Granåsen. Northug stated, "She is the favorite based on what we have seen. She has won a test race on roller skis, and I rank her as a better skier than the rest. The course suits her well. It seems she is in good balance and form."

Johaug has not competed at Beitostølen since 2021, and since then, she has become a mother. Northug remarked, "I think she is just as strong as before, and in addition, it's a slightly older Therese coming back this time. She may need a couple of races to really find her stride. It will be exciting to follow her."

Northug plans to participate in the national season opener for the first time since 2018, but he is struggling with back pain, making his participation uncertain.

Johaug comes to her races at Beitostølen with a remarkable track record, having won her last eleven distance events at the venue, not having been beaten there since 2014. With the opening races approaching, expectations are high for what Johaug will deliver as she aims for a successful comeback before heading to the World Cup opener in Ruka and further competitions in Lillehammer.

The coming weekend sees Johaug competing in both a 10 kilometer classic and another in freestyle, leading into the traditional media days with Norway's Ski Federation.