World Championship Train Could Depart By November: – Everyone Is Nervous

World Championship Train Could Depart By November: – Everyone Is Nervous

With months to go before the elite cross-country skiers compete for medals in Trondheim, it doesn’t necessarily mean they can rest easy.

This weekend kicks off the season at Beitostølen, where Norwegian stars are eager to start.

The reigning World Cup champion, Harald Østberg Amundsen, shared that he feels pressure to replicate last season's success and aims for medals at the World Championships. He stated, "Last year's season was very good, and I've put a lot of pressure on myself for this season. I want to prove that last year is something I can recreate, and I want to compete for medals in the World Championship too."

February and March are set to be pivotal as the World Championships host spectacular events in Trondheim. Amundsen noted that although he is a strong contender in the 50 km and skiathlon, positions in the classical events are more competitive.

"Everyone is nervous. We know that competitions coming up will greatly affect World Championship spots, which adds to the nerves this season," he admitted.

The selection process could start after the Ruka competition, and Amundsen feels the need to perform significantly in classical disciplines before the next World Championships. Therefore, he is prioritizing specific races during the upcoming opening weekends.

While the pressure mounts for Amundsen and his teammates, Simen Hegstad Krüger faces the new season with less anxiety as he is already secured spots in both individual start and skiathlon, thanks to his victories at the last World Championships. Hegstad Krüger remarked, "The beginning of the season is not the most important for me as I have already secured two start places," indicating a lower stress level and a different focus compared to his teammates preparing for their own selections.

Amundsen emphasizes that the first weeks will be crucial in confirming his performance, as he looks to build on his best test results while managing the nerves that come with high expectations.