End of Partnership with Norway Due to Financial Challenges

The American Nordic combined team has officially declared the end of its partnership with Norway, a collaboration that sought to enhance the skills of top American athletes and stimulate interest in Nordic combined skiing across North America. Launched last fall, the initiative aimed to strengthen ties with the Norwegian Ski Federation, but the American team faced a significant hurdle: securing $150,000 to sustain the partnership. Unfortunately, despite concerted efforts, fundraising fell far short of this goal.

In the past, Norwegian combined teams have successfully partnered with nations like Estonia and Kazakhstan. Ivar Stuan, the Norwegian team’s sports manager, voiced his concerns regarding the sport's popularity, stressing that a robust American presence is vital for preserving Nordic combined's Olympic status. The International Olympic Committee has previously signaled that without sufficient interest, the discipline could face the risk of losing its place in the Olympic Games.