Val di Fiemme, Italy – The question of who anchors the Norwegian women’s 4×7.5k relay team at the Winter Olympics has lingered since Marit Bjørgen’s iconic sprint finish in Pyeongchang in 2018. Since then, five different skiers have taken the responsibility, a testament to the challenge of finding a consistent closer for one of the sport’s dominant nations. Now, with the Games approaching, Heidi Weng is making a compelling case to end the search.
Weng’s recent form and expressed confidence signal a potential shift in Norway’s relay strategy. After a strong showing at Granåsen in December, where she finished second to Jessica Diggins of the United States, Weng stated her intention to challenge Diggins at the Olympics, telling Norwegian broadcaster NRK, “We’ll get her at the Olympics. She’s hard to beat, but I think it will be fine.” This assertive declaration, coupled with her return to peak condition, positions her as a strong contender for the crucial anchor leg.
The anchor leg has proven to be a particularly difficult spot to fill for Norway. Following Bjørgen’s success, Therese Johaug, Helene Marie Fossesholm, Ragnhild Haga, Anne Kjersti Kalvå, and Kristin Austgulen Fosnæs have all had a turn, each unable to replicate Bjørgen’s clutch performance. Weng, with seven previous championship relay appearances dating back to 2013 – including a gold medal at the 2013 World Championships in Val di Fiemme – brings a wealth of experience to the role.
The challenge facing Norway is significant. Sweden, consistently a powerhouse in cross-country skiing, is expected to field Jonna Sundling on the anchor leg. Sundling’s sprint finish is widely regarded as one of the fastest in the world, and she demonstrated her ability to close out races at the 2022 World Championships, overtaking Norway’s Kristin Austgulen Fosnæs in the final meters. The Swedish team’s dominance in recent years – securing 10 consecutive championship relay victories – further underscores the difficulty of challenging them.
However, the relay is rarely a straightforward affair. While Sundling presents a formidable challenge, Norway’s overall team strength and strategic positioning could provide an opportunity. Astrid Øyre Slind and Kristin Austgulen Fosnæs are likely candidates for the classic legs, with Karoline Simpson-Larsen potentially filling the third leg. This combination of classic skiers and Weng’s potential as an anchor could create a balanced and competitive lineup.
The recent skiathlon race at the Olympics offered a glimpse of the challenges ahead. Jessie Diggins of the United States secured a strong eighth-place finish, despite a fall in the slushy conditions. Frida Karlsson of Sweden dominated the race, showcasing her exceptional form and solidifying Sweden’s position as a favorite. Rosie Brennan of the United States, competing despite recent health struggles, finished 37th, expressing satisfaction with her classic skiing performance.
While Diggins’ performance was encouraging for the American team, the focus remains on the relay. The Norwegian team, however, is acutely aware of the need to close the gap on Sweden. Weng’s willingness to take on the anchor leg is a significant step in that direction. Her experience, combined with her recent form, makes her a logical choice to navigate the pressure and deliver a strong finish.
The stakes are high. Norway has a proud tradition in cross-country skiing, and a relay medal would be a significant achievement. While Sweden appears to be the clear favorite, the unpredictable nature of relay racing and Weng’s determination leave the door open for a potential upset. The competition in Val di Fiemme promises to be a thrilling battle between two of the sport’s leading nations, with the anchor leg likely to be the decisive moment.
The question isn’t simply whether Norway can match Sweden’s speed, but whether they can execute a flawless race, maintain contact with the leaders, and position Weng for a final sprint. The team’s ability to navigate the challenging course and capitalize on any opportunities will be crucial. As Weng herself stated, it’s about more than just individual performance; it’s about the collective effort of the entire team.
The Norwegian team’s recent performance at the Olympics, with Astrid Øyre Slind finishing just off the podium in the skiathlon, demonstrates their potential. However, they will need to elevate their performance to challenge Sweden’s dominance. The relay presents a new opportunity, and Weng’s willingness to embrace the challenge of the anchor leg could be the key to unlocking Norway’s success.
the Olympic relay will be a test of endurance, strategy, and mental fortitude. While Sweden remains the team to beat, Norway’s experience, Weng’s confidence, and the unpredictable nature of the sport suggest that a medal is within reach. The race promises to be a captivating spectacle, and the outcome will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the landscape of women’s cross-country skiing.
