The cross-country skiing World Cup degenerates into a model without value

The decision, like that of the Norwegians around the top stars Johannes Hösflot Klaebo and Therese Johaug, initially applies to the World Cups in Davos and Dresden in December. It remains to be seen whether Sweden and Finland will forego the Tour de Ski, the first highlight of the season in January. FIS race director Pierre Mignerey expressed his understanding for the cancellations on Norwegian Radio (NRK), but pointed out the functioning safety concept. The World Cups would still take place. “Of course it is always best to have the best athletes at the start, but it is also important for the other nations to be able to continue competing,” he said. However, the Swedish association said in a statement that it is currently not possible to guarantee safe travel to and from the World Cup locations. In addition, the consequences of a possible COVID-19 illness for top athletes are unclear. “None of us are willing to take this risk,” said team doctor Per Andersson. Head of cross-country skiing Daniel Fahraeus spoke of a “very difficult decision”, but one that was unavoidable for health reasons. At the World Cup opener in Ruka last weekend, the cross-country skiers from the far north won all six competitions - five from Norway and one from Sweden. Among the women, eight of the nine podium places went to the Scandinavians (three and five respectively), and six among the men (all from Norway).

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The cross-country skiing World Cup degenerates into a model without value

After Norway, another top team, Sweden, is withdrawing from current racing events, and Finland is also following the example of its neighbors. The respective associations announced this on Wednesday with reference to the Corona situation.