Swedish Skiers Prioritize Training Over Local World Cup

Swedish Skiers Prioritize Training Over Local World Cup

In a surprising turn of events, several elite Swedish cross-country skiers will be absent from the upcoming World Cup in Falun. Instead, they will focus on a high-altitude training camp in Italy to better prepare for the World Championships in Trondheim, which are set to take place from February 26 to March 9, 2025.

Head coach Anders Byström conveyed his disappointment over the choice, stating that it's unfortunate to miss such a significant event on home turf. The World Cup weekend in Falun is scheduled for February 14 to 16, 2025, and this year, it represents the sole opportunity for fans to witness the World Cup in Sweden, contrasting sharply with the previous season’s offerings.

Athlete William Poromaa shared his feelings about the situation, mentioning that while he finds it disheartening to skip the Falun competition, the upcoming World Championships hold more weight for his career. However, not all athletes feel the same. Oskar Svensson, who is a resident of Falun, expressed his determination to compete in the local event, showcasing the differing viewpoints among athletes regarding their competition and training priorities.

This decision highlights the strategic considerations professional athletes face as they balance their training and competition schedules, especially in the lead-up to major championships like the World Championships.