Iivo Niskanen has been missing from the Finnish national team camps since the spring, and the Finnish Ski Federation has now explained why.

The Olympic champion underwent two surgeries on his foot after a melanoma was discovered during a routine mole check in May.

Health was not the only reason for his absence. In September, Niskanen announced the birth of his third child, a son, and he has stayed away from the autumn camps as planned. He is scheduled to rejoin the team in November at Olos.

Also Read: Niskanen shares personal news just two days after national team announcement

The timing is notable. After several seasons of training privately, Niskanen signed with the national team again this spring, in the same off-season he split with longtime ski supplier Fischer. Instead of a summer with the group, he ended up training at home.

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Two surgeries in a difficult spot

Niskanen explained how the diagnosis came about and why it changed his plans for the summer.

“In May, at a mole check, a dermatologist recommended removing a mole on my foot. Further examinations revealed it to be an acral melanoma in situ, which was treated with a second surgery to ensure sufficient margins of healthy tissue,” Niskanen says in a Press Release.

“The removal area was in a challenging place, especially since my foot is my working tool. Because of these two surgeries, I had to adapt my normal training, and therefore I was not able to take part in the summer national team camps, as was my wish and intention. I appreciate the support head coach Joakim Abrahamsson gave me during the summer to optimize my training at home.”

According to Niskanen, the situation is now under control, his training has trended upward despite the disruptions, and his focus is firmly on what lies ahead.

“Waiting for the results was naturally stressful. I am grateful that I went for the check in time, received excellent care and am able to continue normal life and my work. I will not comment on my health any further. I have been away from the national team activities this autumn as planned due to the addition to our family. I will return to national team activities in November at Olos, according to the original plan,” Niskanen says.

Coach puts health and family first

For Abrahamsson, the priorities in this situation have been clear from the start.

“Above all, in this situation we must see the person behind the elite athlete. Iivo has gone through a really challenging period, and at the same time the family has grown. In a situation like this, it is completely natural that family and personal life come first,” Abrahamsson says.

“It has been important for us to support Iivo, but at the same time also give him the time and space he needs. We have had continuous and good dialogue, and I have also had the opportunity to meet him during this period. It has been very meaningful to meet and talk about things other than skiing.”

The head coach is optimistic about what he has seen from Niskanen in recent weeks.

“It is very positive that Iivo is now in a good training phase. We see good development and above all a strong desire to look forward. We will continue to move forward step by step and adapt the process according to what is best for Iivo and his family. We are very happy that he is part of our team, and we look forward to continuing our journey together,” Abrahamsson concludes.

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