Petter Northug Offers a One Percent Chance for World Championships – Focus is on Different Races

Petter Northug has given a one percent chance for participating in the World Championships, asserting that his real focus lies elsewhere. The 13-time world champion acknowledges the speculation surrounding his potential return to competitive skiing in Trondheim but maintains that he is primarily aiming for the Vasaloppet race.

Despite the buzz about him potentially being on the World Championship team, he emphasizes that for that to happen, many other skiers would have to drop out. Northug states, "I would be lying if I said it's not enjoyable to be part of such speculation," but he also recognizes the slim chances of his participation given the competition.

Northug has been training alongside Johannes Hösflot Klæbo in Italy and has committed to giving his all for the World Championships, despite the long odds. He plans to compete in early season races like Beitostølen and the Scandinavian Cup to gauge his readiness for competitive racing. His hopes are to be in good shape by mid-January to possibly compete at a high level.