Petter Northug Warns of Trouble for Kristine Stavås Skistad

Petter Northug expresses sympathy for Kristine Stavås Skistad, who must undergo a lengthy rehabilitation following an abdominal surgery. He mentioned, "Now I do not know the details of how serious it is, but this news is very sad."

Due to her recent surgery, Skistad will not be participating in competitions in the near future, including the World Cup opening. Northug remarked, "I believe Skistad would like to start earlier. We rarely hear from her, and we hoped to see her at Beitostølen. How long until she can return to competition? Many will be concerned, especially if we reach 2025 before she can compete in the lead-up to a home World Championship."

Skistad's surgery took place last Friday, and according to national team doctor Ove Feragen, she will need to focus on rehabilitation. Feragen said, "She will not be attending Beitostølen, and certainly not Ruka. We will assess her progress on an ongoing basis when she can return."

This setback is significant for Skistad, particularly as it involves the abdominal area, which plays a crucial role in cross-country skiing. The abdominal issues that led to her surgery developed rather suddenly. Feragen commented that the operation and its recovery will impose limitations on her training during this crucial season, which is especially unideal given the timing of the events ahead.

Skistad’s absence is notably impactful as her traditional season opener at Beitostølen is just a week away, leading into World Cup races in Ruka, Lillehammer, and Davos. Last season, she demonstrated her prowess in the World Cup with eleven podiums, including five victories.

(©NTB)