Petter Northug misses Vasaloppet: 'There were some terrible days'

Petter Northug, a major figure in cross-country skiing, has been forced to miss this year’s Vasaloppet due to health issues. He explained that he felt an illness coming on and eventually contracted norovirus, which led to several difficult days marked by rashes and fever.

Northug, who has participated in the race twice before, recorded an 18th place finish last year and finished 48th in 2023. His decision to withdraw underscores the physical toll that such illnesses can have on even the most experienced athletes.

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