Northug's Attempt to Join ÖSV: 'Too Old! I Don't Need Him'

Petter Northug, a 13-time world champion in cross-country skiing, continues to pursue a change of nationality to compete for Austria. ÖSV's cross-country skiing chief Alois Stadlober and top athlete Mika Vermeulen are less than enthusiastic about his ambitions, stating, "I don’t need him because he is too old at 39." Northug, who has not competed in the World Cup since 2018, still hopes for a breakthrough inhis bid for citizenship, claiming he'd be happy to move to Austria soon and aiming for participation in the 2026 Olympics and the 2027 World Championships. However, recognition of his request faces hurdles, and he acknowledges the time pressures involved, stating the need for clarity before May 1.