Norwegian Star Tumbles Before World Championships Dress Rehearsal in Falun

Iivo Niskanen expressed confidence in his form after his win in Ruka back in November. “I know I am unbeatable if I stay healthy,” he told NRK after winning the classic 10 km at the World Cup opening in Ruka.

On Saturday in Falun, Niskanen delivered once again. He beat Johannes Høsflot Klæbo by 12.9 seconds, Erik Valnes by 17.5 seconds, and Martin Løwstrøm Nyenget by 20.2 seconds. When asked if he still felt invincible, Niskanen admitted that despite not feeling at his very best before the Tour de Ski, his performance today felt very good, especially on excellent skis. He celebrated his victory in Falun, noting that he hadn’t been at his best there previously, and looked forward to the upcoming race in Trondheim.

A photograph captioned "William Poromaa showed Niskanen the back of his hand in Les Rousses" highlighted the ongoing rivalry. Niskanen acknowledged the strength of Swedish William Poromaa, who won the classic mass start in Les Rousses on January 19, and admitted to being slightly worried about his own form because of Poromaa’s performance.

Johannes Høsflot Klæbo, who was also a contender in Falun, brushed off Niskanen’s comments with a smile. “That’s a poor analysis, I think. We’ll see. World Championship gold isn’t handed out today—it will be on March 4,” he remarked. Klæbo added that Niskanen had demonstrated his strength, making him the man to beat, particularly in the 10 km classical event. Martin Løwstrøm Nyenget also praised the Finn’s performance, noting that Niskanen is the favorite in Trondheim.

Even though Klæbo’s tone was light, Nyenget was quick to add that there is no doubt Niskanen is exceptionally good on the 10 km classical. In contrast, Pål Golberg—who finished tenth—does not favor Niskanen, predicting that with sticky conditions in Granåsen, Klæbo will best Niskanen by about 20 seconds. Klæbo, who secured a clear sprint victory in Falun the previous Friday, seemed content that his minor setback from a recent illness would not affect his preparation for the upcoming World Championships on home snow.

In the women’s general rehearsal for the World Championships in the 10 km classic, Swedish Ebba Andersson proved too strong for Norway’s Heidi Weng, winning by 17.8 seconds. Weng admitted that she did not feel as raw as usual and was surprised by her own performance. Having focused on intense training rather than participating in as many races, Weng acknowledged that while she dislikes sitting out competitions, she is beginning to accept the need for some breaks and plans to use this race as a good run-through before the championships.

Weng, who was buoyed by her second-place finish in Falun – a podium position she hadn’t seen in the 10 km classic for many years – also commented on the start anxiety after a long period without racing. She noted the relief of finally getting a proper run, even though she expected to feel nervous again at the championship start.

Elsewhere, Norwegian skier Kristin Austgulen Fosnæs, who finished 11th, described her race as a personal fight. Fosnæs felt satisfied with her performance despite being on her own in the course, while Astrid Øyre Slind was forced to withdraw from the race due to stomach problems. According to team doctor Ove Feragen, Slind opted not to risk further issues ahead of the World Championships.

Additionally, strong competitors like Frida Karlsson and Therese Johaug are taking a break from the World Cup in Falun as they prepare for the major championship event on home ground.

Published on February 15, 2025 at 11:10, this race in Falun is seen as a critical tune-up ahead of the upcoming World Championships, with top athletes sharpening their form and strategy in anticipation of the big event in March.