Norwegian Success – Astrid Öyre Slind and Therese Johaug on Top

Norwegian duo Astrid Öyre Slind and Therese Johaug crushed the competition in the pursuit race over 15 kilometers in classic style. After the race, the veterans sit atop the overall standings in the Tour de Ski.

"We had decided to ski together and not try to break away, but instead to create as big a gap as possible behind us," said Öyre Slind.

The seasoned 36-year-olds Astrid Öyre Slind and Therese Johaug were in third and fourth place overall before today’s fourth stage of the Tour de Ski.

After excellent teamwork, where the Norwegians took turns leading, the duo significantly distanced themselves from the other competitors.

"It was fun. Perfect for us to start together, have a little gap behind us, and work together all the way. Absolutely optimal considering the tour."

At the finish, they were far ahead of their rivals. Astrid Öyre Slind was the strongest in the final sprint, claiming her second victory of the tour and the third overall in her career.

"I fear what will happen when this ends, but I will enjoy it as long as it lasts," said the 36-year-old.

With this result, Astrid Öyre Slind is now the overall leader. Johaug is the new second. American Jessie Diggins, who led the tour before today, has dropped to fourth place, 1:01 behind the leading Öyre Slind.

"It’s really fun to have the leader’s jersey, but now there’s a sprint coming up and then the last climb, and I know Therese (Johaug) will be really fast there, so I need to have a bit of an advantage. I have to go all-in on the sprint," she added.

"How great are your chances to win the overall?" she was asked.

"As things stand now, it’s 99 percent Therese."

"Did you expect this before the season?"

"No, never. But I never believe in myself."

"During your long career, how often have you doubted yourself?"

"Almost every warm-up, it feels like I have no chance."

Moa Ilar was the best Swede in ninth place.