Controversy Surrounds Government's Proposal to Change Holmenkollen's Status

The Norwegian government's proposal to change Holmenkollen's status as a national venue for cross-country skiing, ski jumping, and Nordic combined has sparked strong reactions. The plan aims to redirect funding toward other locations considered more suitable for these sports while still preserving Holmenkollen’s role as a biathlon venue.

Culture and Equality Minister Lubna Jaffery emphasized that Norway boasts numerous venues for international championships. However, she believes that maintaining national facility status should be restricted to better support a wider range of sports disciplines. To facilitate this, the government intends to introduce a new subsidy scheme for mastery venues.

City Council Leader Eirik Lae Solberg from Oslo likened the proposal to England abandoning Wembley as its national football stadium, underscoring Holmenkollen’s significant cultural heritage. Likewise, Marit Gjerland of the Norwegian Ski Federation voiced her surprise and dissatisfaction with the decision, arguing for the preservation of the current system.

Adding to the chorus of discontent, former ski champion and TV 2 skiing expert Petter Northug stated that Holmenkollen occupies an unparalleled spot in the history of ski sports, reflecting the widespread disbelief and disappointment surrounding the proposal.