Jarl Magnus Riiber, suffering from Crohn’s disease, to retire at season’s end

Jarl Magnus Riiber, the record-holder for the most victories in the Nordic combined World Cup with 76 wins, has announced that he will retire at the end of the current season. The 27‐year‐old Norwegian, who has battled the chronic inflammatory Crohn’s disease, made the decision during a press conference, explaining that his health issues have become too demanding to continue competing at the level required for the sport.

Riiber, who was one of the favorites for the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics, stated, “I am happy to finish at the top. With the Olympics next year, I would have had to sacrifice even more, and I am not sure my body could have handled it.” His struggles have been evident since the Beijing 2022 Games, where he had to settle for team events after missing several races due to a COVID-related setback.

The announcement follows recent retirements in biathlon by Johannes Boe and Tarjei Boe, marking the end of an era for a new generation of Norwegian stars. Riiber’s decision is a significant moment in Nordic combined, leaving behind a legacy of record-breaking performances and an inspirational career despite ongoing health challenges.